Chapter 30: Problem 3

Discuss the rules to predict the skeletal structure of metal clusters with the help of suitable examples.

Short Answer

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The skeletal structure of metal clusters can be predicted using the 18-electron rule whereby the metal atoms and ligands contribute to a total of 18 electrons for a stable structure as exemplified with Fe(CO)5 . The nature of bonding, either metallic or covalent, also influence the structure of the cluster. For instance, the Fe4C(CO)12 cluster includes both types of bonds reflecting in its unique structure.

Step by step solution

Understanding the 18-Electron Rule

The 18-electron rule is a chemical rule primarily used for predicting the structures of transition metal complexes. It is based on the fact that the valence orbitals of a transition metal center are comprised of five d, one s, and three p orbitals, requiring 18 electrons to fill hence stabilizing the structure.

Applying the 18 Electron rule in Metal Clusters

This rule can be applied to predict the structures of metal clusters. For a stable structure, the sum of the electrons from the metal atoms and the electrons from the ligands should equal to 18. If it is less than or exceeds 18, it indicates that the structure is likely to react to reach the stable state. For example, a complex Fe(CO)5, where Fe contributes 8 electrons and each CO ligand (5 in this case) brings 2 electrons, the total is 18, offering a stable structure.

Understanding the nature of bonding in metal clusters

In addition to the 18-electron rule, the skeletal structure of metal clusters can be influenced by nature of bonding which is usually metallic bonding, covalent bonding or a mix of both. In metallic bonding, valence electrons are delocalized, creating a 'sea' of electrons that surround positively charged ions, resulting in clusters with high electrical conductivity and malleability. In covalent bonding, electrons are shared between atoms, often leading to rigid structures.

Bonding in metal clusters: An Example

An example of this can be seen in the cluster Fe4C(CO)12, it possesses both metallic and covalent bonds. Fe atoms are connected by metallic bonds while CO act as bridging ligands aiding in covalent bonding. The combined effect of these bonds grants the cluster its particular structure.

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Discuss the rules to predict the skeletal structure of metal clusters with the help of suitable examples.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding the 18-Electron Rule

Applying the 18 Electron rule in Metal Clusters

Understanding the nature of bonding in metal clusters

Bonding in metal clusters: An Example

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