Question

The geometry and magnetic behaviour of the complex [Ni(CO)₄] are ______.

Options

• square planar geometry and paramagnetic

• tetrahedral geometry and diamagnetic

• square planar geometry and diamagnetic

• tetrahedral geometry and paramagnetic

Answer 1

The geometry and magnetic behaviour of the complex [Ni(CO)₄] are tetrahedral geometry and diamagnetic.

Explanation:

In [Ni(CO)₄], Ni(0) is 3d⁸4s². Strong‐field CO ligands cause pairing → 3d¹⁰, leaving 4s and 4p empty.

• Tetrahedral geometry (sp³ hybridisation)
• Diamagnetic behaviour (all electrons paired due to strong field CO ligands)