Why are many transition metal complexes coloured?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Ligands split the d orbitals, and d electrons absorb visible light to move between split levels
- Step 1: Light of energy equal to the gap is absorbed. Step 2. The remaining (complementary) colour is seen. Answer: Ligands split the d orbitals, and d electrons absorb visible light to move between split levels. Why not the others: nuclei are not involved in colour; ions with no d electrons (such as Zn2+ and Sc3+) are colourless; absorption depends on the energy gap.
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