Calculate the square of the spin-only magnetic moment () in for the complex ion . (Atomic number of — Coordination Compounds Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The central metal $Co$ is in a $+3$ oxidation state. Its electronic configuration is $[Ar] 3d^6$. The fluoride ion ($F^-$) is a weak field ligand, so the complex $[CoF_6]^{3-}$ is a high-spin outer orbital complex ($sp^3d^2$ hybridized) where pairing is energetically unfavorable. The $6$ electrons occupy the d-orbitals as $1$ pair and $4$ unpaired electrons ($n=4$). The spin-only magnetic moment is given by $\mu = \sqrt{n(n+2)}$. Therefore, $\mu^2 = 4(4+2) = 24$.