Chapter 21, Problem 13P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The oxidation state of metals and thetotal number of valence electrons in metals forming complexes are to be determined. Whether the metals in the complexes are saturated or unsaturated is also to be stated.

Concept Introduction:

Oxidation state of a metal in a complex is the charge on the metal that would be there even if all the anionic ligands and counter ions were removed.

Total valence electrons of a metal in a complex is obtained by the following formula:

Total number of valence electrons of metal in complex = $d^n$ $+$ electrons donated by ligands

Here, $d^n$ is d-electrons in metal.

The number of electrons required to complete the octet in transition metals is $18$. As along with s and p orbitals, they have d orbitals too in their valence shell. Together the three orbitals can acquire $18$ electrons in the valence shell, $2$ in s, $6$ in p, and $10$ in d orbitals.