Question:

In which of the following octahedral complex species the magnitude of \(\Delta_o\) will be maximum?

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Compare ligand positions in the spectrochemical series and the oxidation state of the metal.
Updated On: Nov 4, 2026
  • \([\mathrm{Co(H_2O)_6}]^{2+}\)
  • \([\mathrm{Co(CN)_6}]^{3-}\)
  • \([\mathrm{Co(C_2O_4)_3}]^{3-}\)
  • \([\mathrm{Co(NH_3)_6}]^{3+}\)
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

\(\Delta_o\) depends on the ligand field strength and on the oxidation state of the metal.
Spectrochemical series: \(\mathrm{H_2O} \lt \mathrm{C_2O_4^{2-}} \lt \mathrm{NH_3} \lt \mathrm{CN^-}\) (CN- is a strong field pi-acceptor ligand).
Co is +3 in options 2, 3, 4 and only +2 in option 1 (smaller \(\Delta_o\)).
Among the Co(III) complexes, \(\mathrm{CN^-}\) gives the largest splitting.
Answer: (2) \([\mathrm{Co(CN)_6}]^{3-}\)
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