Question Details

Sp³d² hybridization is present in [Co(NH₃)₆³⁺], find its geometry

Options

A

octahedral geometry

B

square planar geometry

C

tetragonal geometry

D

tetrahedral geometry

Correct Answer :

octahedral geometry

Solution :

The correct answer/option is octahedral geometry.

To understand why [Co(NH3)6]3+ possesses octahedral geometry under sp3d2 (or outer orbital octahedral coordination) hybridization, let us break down the bonding and coordination details step-by-step:

1. Coordination Number and Geometry:
In the complex ion [Co(NH3)6]3+, the cobalt central metal ion is bonded to six ammine (NH3) ligands. This means the coordination number of the central metal is 6.
A coordination number of 6 corresponds directly to an octahedral arrangement of ligands around the central metal atom/ion to minimize steric repulsion.

2. Hybridization State:
An sp3d2 hybridization involves the mixing of one s-orbital, three p-orbitals, and two d-orbitals from the valence shell.
This combination yields six equivalent hybrid orbitals oriented toward the vertices of a regular octahedron. Thus, any metal complex exhibiting sp3d2 hybridization will have an octahedral geometry.

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