Discuss the factors responsible for the acid hydrolysis of octahedral complexs.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The acid hydrolysis of octahedral complexes is influenced by: the nature of the metal (more positively charged is more prone to hydrolysis), the nature of the ligands (strong field ligands are less prone to hydrolysis), the pH of the solution (greater acidity promotes hydrolysis), and stability of the complex (less stable complexes are more prone to hydrolysis).

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the Structure of Octahedral Complexes

Octahedral complexes are coordination compounds where six pairs of electrons from surrounding atoms or molecules (ligands) are attracted to the central metal atom or ion. The ligands are arranged in an octahedron around the central atom.
02

General Hydrolysis Process

Acid hydrolysis of such complexes generally occurs when they are reacted with a strong acid. This process breaks the bond between the metal atom and one or more ligands, replacing them with one or more water molecules. The ligand is then protonated by the acid to form a neutral molecule which can then dissociate from the complex.
03

Factors Influencing the Acid Hydrolysis

The following factors play key roles in the acid hydrolysis of octahedral complexes: \n1. Nature of the Metal: The greater the positive charge on the central metal ion, the more acidic the complex will be and therefore more susceptible to hydrolysis.\n2. Nature of Ligands: Ligands that are strong field (and can cause greater crystal field splitting) are less prone to hydrolysis as they hold onto the metal ion more strongly.\n3. pH of the Solution: The lower the pH (more acidic), the more likely hydrolysis is to occur. \n4. Stability of the Complex: Less stable complexes are more prone to hydrolysis.

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