Question

What is meant by crystal field splitting energy? For a d4 ion, write the configuration if (i) $\Delta_o$<P, and (ii) $\Delta_o$>P.

Hint:

For weak field ligands, high-spin configurations are favored. For strong field ligands, low-spin configurations are more stable.

Answer 1

The crystal field splitting energy is the energy difference between the two sets of d-orbitals in a coordination complex due to the electrostatic field produced by the surrounding ligands. For a d\textsuperscript{4} ion: - (i) If $\Delta_o$<P (weak field), the configuration will be high-spin with electrons occupying the higher energy orbitals first. - (ii) If $\Delta_o$>P (strong field), the configuration will be low-spin, where electrons pair up in the lower energy orbitals.