Coordination Chemistry and d electron numbers

In summary, coordination chemistry is the study of coordination compounds, which are molecules or ions with a central metal atom or ion surrounded by ligands. Ligands are molecules or ions that bind to the central metal atom and d electrons play a crucial role in the unique properties and reactivity of these compounds. The d electron count is determined by the number of electrons in the d orbitals of the metal atom and coordination chemistry has various applications in catalysis, materials science, and medicine.
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ReidMerrill
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Homework Statement


Predict the number of unpaired electrons

[Cr(H2O)6]3+

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I under stand how to fill out the MO with the eg and t2g and all but I'm confused about determining the number of electrons.
The answers state this is an octahedral d3 but I don't know why it is d3
Cr is the 4th element in the d block so it should be d4 but since it has a charge of +3 / is missing 3 electrons it should be d1 but neither of these are correct.
 
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Cr has no s electrons?
 
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FAQ: Coordination Chemistry and d electron numbers

1. What is coordination chemistry?

Coordination chemistry is a branch of chemistry that deals with the study of coordination compounds, which are molecules or ions with a central metal atom or ion surrounded by ligands. It involves the understanding of the interactions between the metal atom and the ligands, and how they affect the properties of the resulting compound.

2. What are ligands in coordination chemistry?

Ligands are molecules or ions that bind to a central metal atom or ion to form a coordination compound. They can be neutral molecules, anions, or cations, and are typically Lewis bases, meaning they have a lone pair of electrons that can be donated to the metal atom.

3. How are d electrons involved in coordination chemistry?

D electrons are involved in coordination chemistry as they are located in the outermost electron shell of transition metals, which are commonly used as central metal atoms in coordination compounds. These d electrons are responsible for the unique properties and reactivity of coordination compounds, such as color, magnetic properties, and catalytic activity.

4. What is the d electron count and how is it determined?

The d electron count refers to the number of d electrons present in the outermost electron shell of a transition metal. It is determined by counting the number of electrons in the d orbitals of the metal atom, which can range from 0 to 10 depending on the oxidation state and coordination number of the metal.

5. What are some applications of coordination chemistry?

Coordination chemistry has many practical applications, including in catalysis, materials science, and medicine. Coordination compounds are used as catalysts in numerous industrial processes, such as the production of plastics and pharmaceuticals. They also have applications in the development of new materials, such as sensors and electronic devices. In medicine, coordination compounds are used as chemotherapeutic agents and in diagnostic imaging techniques.

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