Question #709e7

1 Answer
Ernest Z.
Apr 9, 2017

An inner orbital complex uses "d" orbitals from the (n"-1") shell to form "d"^2"sp"^3 hybrid orbitals for bonding to the ligands.

Explanation:

An outer orbital complex uses "d" orbitals from the (n) shell to form "sp"^3"d"^2 hybrid orbitals for bonding.

Inner orbital complexes

["Co"("NH"_3)_6]^"3+" is an inner orbital complex.

The electron configuration of "Co"^"3+" is "[Ar] 3d"^6.

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The "3d, 4s" and "4p" orbitals are close in energy, so the ion can easily form six "d"^2"sp"^3 hybrid orbitals for bonding to the "NH"_3 ligands.

This is an inner orbital complex because it uses the "inner" "3d" orbitals for bonding.

Outer orbital complexes

["CoF"_6]^"3-" is an outer orbital complex.

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Here, the empty "4s, 4p" and two of the "4d" orbitals can form six "sp"^2"d"^3 hybrid orbitals for bonding to the "F"^"-" ligands.

This is an outer orbital complex because it uses the "outer" "4d" orbitals for bonding.

For an excellent explanation of inner and outer orbital complexes, see this Socratic answer.

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