Question:

The total number of unpaired electrons present in \(\mathrm{[Co(NH_3)_6]Cl_2}\) and \(\mathrm{[Co(NH_3)_6]Cl_3}\) is :

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Find the oxidation state of Co in each complex (+2 and +3) and fill the d-orbitals: \(\mathrm{Co^{2+}}\) is d7 and \(\mathrm{Co^{3+}}\) is d6 (low spin with the stronger field).
Updated On: Nov 4, 2026
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Correct Answer: 3

Solution and Explanation

\(\mathrm{[Co(NH_3)_6]Cl_2}\): Co is +2, 3d7. For \(\mathrm{[Co(NH_3)_6]^{2+}}\) the complex is taken as high spin: \(t_{2g}^5 e_g^2\), giving 3 unpaired electrons.
\(\mathrm{[Co(NH_3)_6]Cl_3}\): Co is +3, 3d6 with strong-field \(\mathrm{NH_3}\) giving the low-spin \(t_{2g}^6 e_g^0\): 0 unpaired electrons.
Total unpaired electrons = 3 + 0 = 3.
Answer: 3
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