The shape of [Cu(NH3)4]^{2+} is square planar, Cu^{2+} in this complex is

Question

The shape of \(\left[\mathrm{Cu}\left(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\right)_{4}\right]^{2+}\) is square planar, \(\mathrm{Cu}^{2+}\) in this complex is

(a) \(s p^{3}\) hybridised

(b) \(d s p^{2}\) hybridised

(c) \(s p^{3} d\) hybridised

(d) \(s p^{3} d^{2}\) hybridised

Answer 1

Correct option is (b) \(d s p^{2}\) hybridised

To determine the hybridization of Cu²⁺ in the complex (Cu(NH₃)₄)²⁺ and confirm its square planar shape, we can follow these steps:

Step 1: Identify the Coordination Number
The coordination number of a metal complex is determined by the number of ligands attached to the central metal ion. In this case, there are four ammonia (NH₃) ligands coordinated to the copper ion.

Hint: Count the number of ligands attached to the metal ion to find the coordination number.

Step 2: Determine the Geometry of the Complex

The problem states that the shape of the complex is square planar. Square planar geometry is typically associated with a coordination number of 4.

Hint: Recall that square planar geometry is common for d⁸ metal ions, particularly in complexes with a coordination number of 4.

Step 3: Identify the Type of Complex

Since the geometry is square planar, we can classify this complex as an inner orbital complex. Inner orbital complexes typically involve the use of d-orbitals from the inner shell of the metal ion.

Hint: Remember that inner orbital complexes often involve the hybridization of d-orbitals from the same shell as the valence electrons.

Step 4: Determine the Hybridization

For square planar complexes, the hybridization can be either dsp² or d²sp³. However, since we are dealing with a d⁸ metal ion (Cu²⁺), the appropriate hybridization is dsp².

Copper in its +2 oxidation state has the electronic configuration of (Ar)3d⁹.

When forming the complex, one of the 3d electrons is used for bonding, resulting in d⁸ configuration, which leads to dsp² hybridization.

Hint: Use the electronic configuration of the metal ion to determine which orbitals are involved in hybridization.

Step 5: Conclusion

Thus, the hybridization of Cu²⁺ in the complex (Cu(NH₃)₄)²⁺ is dsp².