Impact of Bond length on Reduction of coordination complex

[yang09]

Homework Statement

The complex [Mn(CO)₅Cl]⁺ is reduced by one electron and then by a second electron afterwards. How would the first reduction affect the C-O bond length in carbon monoxide? How would the second reduction affect the C-O bond length?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

So I know the complex is a low spin d⁵ complex. I'm thinking the first reduction will shorten the bond because the Mn is getting negative, which will repel the Carbon, thus, shorten the C-O bond. I am not sure about the second reduction though

Thanks for any help

 

[nate808]

!

Hello,

You are correct in thinking that the first reduction would affect the C-O bond length. As the manganese atom becomes more negatively charged, it will have a stronger attraction for the electrons in the CO ligand, causing the bond to shorten. This is known as a backbonding effect, where the metal donates electrons to the ligand, strengthening the bond.

For the second reduction, the bond length may also be affected, but it would depend on the specific conditions and the nature of the reducing agent. If the second reduction results in a highly negatively charged manganese atom, it could further strengthen the backbonding and shorten the bond even more. However, if the second reduction results in a neutral or positively charged manganese atom, the bond length may not be significantly affected.

Overall, the bond length will be influenced by the electronic structure of the complex and the charge on the metal atom. I hope this helps!