Question

Which ligand is stronger based on the spectrochemical series?

• A. Thiocyanate
• B. Cyanide
• C. Both equally strong
• D. Neither is strong

Hint:

In the spectrochemical series, cyanide is a stronger ligand than thiocyanate. Strong-field ligands cause greater splitting of the d-orbitals.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the spectrochemical series.
The spectrochemical series arranges ligands according to the strength of the field they generate. Ligands that generate a strong field lead to greater splitting of the d-orbitals in the metal center.
Step 2: Comparison of thiocyanate and cyanide.
- Cyanide (CN\(^-\)) is a strong-field ligand and can cause a larger splitting of the d-orbitals, making it stronger. - Thiocyanate (SCN\(^-\)) is a weaker field ligand compared to cyanide.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Therefore, cyanide is the stronger ligand, corresponding to option (B).