Eduprobe
Question:
The geometry and magnetic behaviour of the complex [Ni(CO)4] are ______.
Square planar geometry and paramagnetic
Tetrahedral geometry and paramagnetic
Tetrahedral geometry and diamagnetic
Square planar geometry and diamagnetic
Solution:
In Ni(CO)4, Ni is in the zero oxidation state i.e., it has a configuration of 3d84s2. Since CO is a strong field ligand, it causes the pairing of unpaired 3d electrons. Also, it causes the 4s electrons to shift to the 3d orbital, thereby giving rise to sp3 hybridization and hence, tetrahedral shape. Since no unpaired electrons are present in this case, [Ni(CO)4] is diamagnetic. Hence, the correct option is D.