The complexes and are both diamagnetic. What are their respective hybridizations according to VBT? — Coordination Compounds Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

In $[Ni(CO)_4]$, Ni(0) $d^8s^2 \rightarrow d^{10}s^0$, leaves 4s and 4p empty ($sp^3$, tetrahedral). In $[Ni(CN)_4]^{2-}$, Ni(2+) $d^8$, pairing leaves one 3d empty ($dsp^2$, square planar) [28, 33].