Question 1

Which of the following best explains why the same transition metal ion can produce different colors in gemstones such as rubies and emeralds?

Accepted Answer

The color is determined by the type of ligands attached to the metal ion, which affect the crystal field splitting energy $$\Delta.$$

Question 2

Which electron configuration correctly represents $$\mathrm{Mn$$^{2+}$$}$$?

Accepted Answer

$$[\mathrm{Ar}]\ 3d^5$

Question 3

What is the primary cause of the 'lanthanide contraction' observed in the atomic radii of the third row transition metals?

Accepted Answer

Increase in nuclear charge with poor shielding by $$4f$$ electrons.

Question 4

Which transition metal ion is most likely to exhibit the greatest number of stable oxidation states?

Accepted Answer

Chromium ($$\mathrm{Cr})$$

Question 5

How many moles of ions are produced when 1 mole of $$[\mathrm{Co(NH_3$)_6}]\mathrm{Cl}_3$$ dissolves in water?

Accepted Answer

4 moles

Question 6

Which ligand is classified as polydentate?

Accepted Answer

EDTA ($$\mathrm{C$$_{10}$$H_{16}N_2O$$_$$8^{4-}$$}$)

Question 7

Which ligand can form linkage isomers?

Accepted Answer

Thiocyanate ($$\mathrm{SCN^-})$$

Question 8

Which of the following complex ions is most likely to absorb light of the shortest wavelength?

Accepted Answer

$$[\mathrm{Cr(CN)_6}]^{3-}$$

Question 9

What is the correct name for the complex ion $$[\mathrm{Fe(CO)_6}]$$ when paired with $$[\mathrm{Ag(CN)_2}]_2$$?

Accepted Answer

Hexacarbonyliron(II) dicyanoargentate

Question 10

Which structure allows for cis–trans geometric isomerism?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{MA_4B_2}$$

Question 11

Which structure allows for fac–mer geometric isomerism?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{MA_3B_3}$$

Question 12

Which of the following is true about optical isomers in coordination compounds?

Accepted Answer

They rotate plane-polarized light in opposite directions.

Question 13

What is the coordination number of the central metal ion in $$[\mathrm{Co(NH_3$)_6}]^{3+}$$?

Accepted Answer

6

Question 14

Which of the following ligands is a bidentate ligand?

Accepted Answer

Ethylenediamine ($$\mathrm{en})$$

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the bond between a ligand and a metal ion in a coordination compound?

Accepted Answer

Coordinate covalent bond

Question 16

Which of the following is a strong-field ligand according to crystal field theory?

Accepted Answer

Cyanide ($$\mathrm{CN^-})$$

Question 17

What is the expected number of unpaired electrons in $$[\mathrm{Co(OH)_6}]^{3-}$$, assuming weak-field ligands?

Accepted Answer

4

Question 18

Which of the following is a real-world application of chelating agents such as EDTA?

Accepted Answer

Treatment of heavy-metal poisoning

Question 19

Which of the following statements about the colors of transition metal complexes is correct?

Accepted Answer

The color is due to transitions between split $$d$$ orbitals caused by crystal field splitting.

Transition Metals and Coordination Compounds: Structure, Properties, and Applications

Study Guide - Practice Questions