Question

The value of \(n\) for the complex [Fe(CO)\(_4\)(SiMe\(_3\))]^\(n\) satisfying the 18-electron rule is ................

Hint:

The 18-electron rule is used to determine the stability of transition metal complexes. For a stable complex, the total number of valence electrons must be 18, including contributions from the metal and its ligands.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: -1

Step 1: Understand the 18-electron rule.
The 18-electron rule states that a stable complex will have a total of 18 valence electrons, which is achieved by counting electrons from metal ligands and the metal itself.
Step 2: Analyze the complex.
The complex is \([Fe(CO)_4(SiMe_3)]^n\).
- Fe is a transition metal in group 8, and its valency is 8.
- CO is a neutral ligand, donating 2 electrons each.
- SiMe\(_3\) is also a neutral ligand, donating 2 electrons each.
Thus, for the complex to satisfy the 18-electron rule, we sum the electrons:
- Fe provides 8 electrons.
- CO provides 4 \(\times\) 2 = 8 electrons.
- SiMe\(_3\) provides 2 electrons.
This gives a total of 8 + 8 + 2 = 18 electrons. Since the complex is neutral, \(n = 0\).
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the value of \(n\) is 0.