Q. [Cr(H₂O)₆]Cl₃ (at. no. of Cr = 24) has a magnetic moment of 3.83 BM, the correct distribution of 3d electrons in the chromium of the complex is :
A) 3d¹(x²−y²), 3d¹(z²), 3d¹(xz)
B) 3d¹(xy), 3d¹(x²−y²), 3d¹(yz)
C) 3d¹(xy), 3d¹(zy), 3d¹(xz)
D) 3d¹(xy), 3d¹(yz), 3d¹(z²)
Explanation
[Solution from source] μ = √(n(n + 2)) = 3.83 BM gives n = 3 unpaired electrons, matching Cr³⁺ (3d³). In the octahedral field of six water ligands these three electrons occupy the lower t₂g set, dxy, dyz and dxz, one each. Any set that includes dx²−y² or dz² places an electron in the higher eg level. Answer (3).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.