Intro to Chemistry

study guides for every class

that actually explain what's on your next test

Crystal field splitting

from class:

Intro to Chemistry

Definition

Crystal field splitting refers to the energy difference between d-orbitals in a transition metal complex when ligands approach and interact with the central metal ion. This interaction causes the degeneracy of the d-orbitals to break, leading to different energy levels.

congrats on reading the definition of crystal field splitting. now let's actually learn it.

ok, let's learn stuff

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The magnitude of crystal field splitting depends on the nature of the ligands and their arrangement around the central metal ion.
  2. In an octahedral field, $d_{z^2}$ and $d_{x^2-y^2}$ orbitals experience higher energy (eg set) compared to $d_{xy}$, $d_{xz}$, and $d_{yz}$ orbitals (t2g set).
  3. The crystal field splitting energy ($\Delta$) can be measured using spectroscopic techniques.
  4. Strong-field ligands cause a larger splitting ($\Delta$), often leading to low-spin complexes, while weak-field ligands cause smaller splitting, resulting in high-spin complexes.
  5. Tetrahedral complexes typically have smaller crystal field splitting compared to octahedral complexes due to less direct interaction with ligands.

Review Questions

  • What factors influence the magnitude of crystal field splitting?
  • In an octahedral coordination complex, which d-orbitals are at higher energy after crystal field splitting?
  • How does ligand strength affect whether a complex is high-spin or low-spin?
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
Glossary
Guides