The ratio of cis and trans-isomers of the complex [Ma2bcde]^n\pm is : β Coordination Compounds Chemistry Question
Question
The ratio of cis and trans-isomers of the complex [Ma2bcde]^n\pm is :
π‘ Solution & Explanation
Step 1: A spin-only magnetic moment of 5.9 BM corresponds to exactly 5 unpaired electrons (n = 5). Step 2: Mn^2+ is a 3d^5 transition metal ion. In a tetrahedral crystal field with weak-field halide (X^-) ligands, the electronic configuration is e^2 t_2^3, which contains 5 unpaired electrons. In a square planar field (dsp^2), at least one d-orbital must be vacated by pairing, preventing all 5 electrons from remaining unpaired. Step 3: Therefore, only a tetrahedral geometry can account for 5 unpaired electrons, which corresponds to option (a).