Which transition metal ion in aqueous solution is colourless due to having a completely filled d-subshell (d10 configuration)?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Zinc(II) ion (Zn^2+)
- Step 1: Colour in transition metal complexes arises from d-d electron transitions between split d-orbitals. Step 2. Zn^2+ has a completely filled 3d10 subshell, so no electronic transitions between d-orbitals can occur. Answer: Zinc(II) ion (Zn^2+). Why not the others: Cu^2+ (3d9) has an unfilled d-orbital and absorbs red-orange light, transmitting blue.
Practise more Chemical Equilibrium, Thermodynamics, Electrochemistry and Spectroscopy.
Free questions with an explanation for every one, and full timed New Zealand Scholarship mock tests.
More Chemical Equilibrium, Thermodynamics, Electrochemistry and Spectroscopy questions
- In 1H NMR spectroscopy, what splitting pattern is observed for the hydrogen atoms on the -CH2- carbon of pure bromoethane (CH3-CH2-Br)?
- What is the pH of a 0.050 mol/L aqueous solution of barium hydroxide, Ba(OH)2, at 25 degrees Celsius?
- According to Le Chatelier's principle, how does increasing total pressure at constant temperature affect the Haber equilibrium: N2(g) + 3 H2…
- For an electrochemical cell with standard potential E_cell^0 = +1.10 V at 298 K, what is the sign and meaning of standard Gibbs free energy…
- What is the solubility product expression K_sp for sparingly soluble silver phosphate, Ag3PO4?
- What prominent absorption band in an infrared (IR) spectrum confirms the presence of a carboxylic acid -O-H group?