Question

State three different features of transition metal complexes that cause a change in the value of ΔE.

Answer 1

Transition metal complexes exhibit a wide range of colors due to different features including the electronic configuration, crystal field splitting, and the charge of the metal ion.

Step-by-step explanation:

Transition metal complexes exhibit a wide range of colors due to different features. Three features that cause a change in the value of ΔE are:

1. Electronic configuration: The number of electrons in the d orbital affects the energy difference between the orbitals and thus the color observed. For example, chromium complexes with an electron configuration of [Ar] 3d5 4s1 have a different color than iron complexes with an electron configuration of [Ar] 3d6 4s2.
2. Crystal field splitting: The magnitude of ΔE depends on the strength of the ligands surrounding the transition metal ion. Ligands that cause a large splitting lead to a higher energy difference and a different color.
3. Charge of the metal ion: The oxidation state of the metal ion affects the electronic structure and can cause a change in ΔE. For example, iron complexes with Fe2+ or Fe3+ ions have different colors.