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Question #44587

Difficulty: 8/10 | 🟢 Free

The Question

An aqueous solution contains a homoleptic coordination complex anion \ce[M(ox)3]3−\ce{[M(ox)3]^{3-}} (where \ceox\ce{ox} = oxalate), which has been resolved into its pure dextrorotatory enantiomer at 298 K. The central transition metal MM belongs to the 3d series and possesses a 3d63d^6 electronic configuration in its +3 oxidation state. Based on Crystal Field Theory (CFT), what is the spin-only magnetic moment (μeff\mu_{eff}) of this optically active isomer, and its corresponding Crystal Field Stabilization Energy (CFSE) in terms of Δo\Delta_o?

Options

  • A.

    0 BM,−2.4Δo0 \text{ BM}, -2.4 \Delta_o

  • B.

    4.90 BM,−0.4Δo4.90 \text{ BM}, -0.4 \Delta_o

  • C.

    2.83 BM,−0.8Δo2.83 \text{ BM}, -0.8 \Delta_o

  • D.

    5.92 BM,0.0Δo5.92 \text{ BM}, 0.0 \Delta_o

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Correct Answer

Step-by-Step Solution

Explanation

How the Examiner Thinks

Exception_Exposure

Learn to identify edge cases and boundary exceptions that JEE examiners hide in math problems.

Concepts Behind This Question

Spin-Only Magnetic Moment|Optical Isomerism Logic|Crystal Field Splitting (Octahedral)

Why This Question Is Tricky

Common Mistakes

This problem tests a critical exception in Coordination Chemistry regarding the Spectrochemical Series.

Students often rigidly memorize that oxygen-donor ligands like oxalate are weak-field and default to high-spin configurations (leading to the trap answer of 4.90 BM).

The hidden variable is the synergistic effect of the metal's high oxidation state (+3) and the ligand's chelating nature.

For Co(III), these factors increase the crystal field splitting energy (Δo\Delta_o) so much that it overcomes the pairing energy (PP), resulting in an anomalous low-spin, diamagnetic complex despite the presence of a traditionally 'weak-field' ligand.

The mention of optical isomerism serves as a cognitive distractor, ensuring students don't dismiss the octahedral geometry but potentially reinforcing a false confidence in a standard weak-field VBT assumption.

Quick Facts About This Question

Question Information

SubjectChemistry
ChapterCoordination Compounds - Class 12
ConceptSpin-Only Magnetic Moment
Difficulty8
Cognitive Load7
Target Solve Time160 sec
AccessFree