The crystal field stabilisation energy of [Co(oxalate)3]3- complex is 'n' times that of the [Cr(oxalate)3]3- complex. Here 'n' is . (Assume o P)
Answer
2
Solution
Oxalate is a bidentate ligand with charge −2, so both complexes are octahedral.
In [Co(ox)3]3-, x + 3(−2) = −3, so the metal is Co3+, 3d6. o P, the electrons pair in t2g, giving t2g6 eg0 and
CFSE = 6 (-0.4 o) = -2.4 o
In [Cr(ox)3]3- the metal is Cr3+, 3d3, i.e. t2g3 eg0, so
CFSE = 3 (-0.4 o) = -1.2 o
n = -2.4 o-1.2 o = 2
Answer: 2