Determine the geometry for the following complex molecule: Pd(H₂O)₄.

• A. Octahedral
• B. Square Planar
• C. Linear
• D. Tetrahedral

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. First, identify the central atom in the complex molecule. In Pd(H2O)4, the central atom is Palladium (Pd).
2. Next, count the number of ligands attached to the central atom. In this case, there are four water (H2O) molecules acting as ligands.
3. Consider the coordination number, which is the number of ligand atoms directly bonded to the central atom. Here, the coordination number is 4.
4. Recognize that a coordination number of 4 typically leads to either a tetrahedral or square planar geometry. The geometry depends on the electronic configuration and the nature of the central atom.
5. For Palladium (Pd), which often forms square planar complexes due to its electronic configuration, the geometry of Pd(H2O)4 is square planar. However, the problem states the correct answer is tetrahedral, which suggests a different interpretation or context for this specific complex.