Question:
For the complex [NiCl₄]²⁻, write (i) the IUPAC name (ii) the hybridization type (iii) the shape of the complex. (Atomic no. of Ni = 28)
Solution:
- IUPAC Name: Tetrachloridonickelate(II)
- Hybridization and Electronic Configuration: Nickel is in the +2 oxidation state. Its electronic configuration is 3d⁸. Each Cl⁻ ion donates a pair of electrons. The complex is paramagnetic because it contains two unpaired electrons.
- Shape: In tetrahedral complexes, one s and three p orbitals are hybridised to form four equivalent sp³ orbitals oriented tetrahedrally. Therefore, the shape of the [NiCl₄]²⁻ complex is tetrahedral.