Chapter 17, Problem 17.66QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The octahedral crystal field splitting energy of $\text{Co}{\left(\text{CN}\right)}_6{}^{\text{3-}}$ is given. The color of a solution of this complex ion is to be predicted.

Concept introduction: Transition metals form colored compounds because of the interactions between electrons in d-orbitals and the lone pairs of electrons on ligands. Valence electrons present in metal ion undergo transitions from ground state energy level to excited state energy level by absorption of a photon of electromagnetic radiation.

To determine: The color of a solution of $\text{Co}{\left(\text{CN}\right)}_6{}^{\text{3-}}$ ion.