Question:

The theory that can completely/properly explain the nature of bonding in [Ni(Co)4] is :

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Ni(CO)4 has Ni(0) bonded to CO through sigma donation plus pi back-donation (synergic bonding), which only molecular orbital theory describes fully.
Updated On: Oct 31, 2026
  • Wemer's theory
  • Valence bond theory
  • Crystal field theory
  • Molecular orbital theory
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Ni(CO)4: Ni is in oxidation state 0 (3d84s2 or 3d10), tetrahedral, diamagnetic.
CO donates a lone pair from carbon to Ni (sigma bond) and Ni donates electrons from filled d-orbitals into the empty antibonding \(\pi^*\) orbitals of CO (pi back-bonding): synergic bonding.
Werner's theory only explains primary and secondary valences; valence bond theory explains geometry and magnetism but not the back bonding; crystal field theory treats CO as a point charge/dipole and cannot explain why neutral CO is a strong field ligand.
Molecular orbital theory handles the sigma and pi interactions completely.
Answer: (D) Molecular orbital theory
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