JEE MAIN - Chemistry (2024 - 1st February Morning Shift - No. 10)

Given below are two statements :

Statement (I) : A solution of $\left[\mathrm{Ni}\left(\mathrm{H}_2 \mathrm{O}\right)_6\right]^{2+}$ is green in colour.

Statement (II) : A solution of $\left[\mathrm{Ni}(\mathrm{CN})_4\right]^{2-}$ is colourless.

In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below :
Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
Both Statement I and Statement II are correct
Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect
Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect

Explanation

In order to determine the correctness of the given statements, we need to analyze the nature of the mentioned complexes.

Statement (I) asserts that a solution of $\left[\mathrm{Ni}\left(\mathrm{H}_2 \mathrm{O}\right)_6\right]^{2+}$ is green in color. This complex involves a nickel(II) cation coordinated with six water molecules. Nickel(II) has the electronic configuration $[Ar]3d^8$. In an octahedral field created by water ligands, the d-orbitals split into two sets, $t_{2g}$ and $e_g$, due to crystal field splitting. The presence of unpaired electrons allows for d-d transitions when light is absorbed, which is responsible for the characteristic color of the complex. Since typical $\left[\mathrm{Ni}\left(\mathrm{H}_2 \mathrm{O}\right)_6\right]^{2+}$ complexes are indeed green in color due to such transitions, Statement (I) is correct.

Statement (II) states that a solution of $\left[\mathrm{Ni}(\mathrm{CN})_4\right]^{2-}$ is colorless. In this complex, nickel(II) is surrounded by four cyanide ligands. Cyanide is a strong field ligand, which leads to a large crystal field splitting that exceeds the pairing energy of the electrons. Hence, all the electrons in the nickel(II) ion are paired, and there are no unpaired electrons available for d-d transitions. As there are no d-d transitions to absorb light in the visible region, the complex appears colorless. Therefore, Statement (II) is also correct.

Given that both statements are correct, the most appropriate answer would be :

Option B : Both Statement I and Statement II are correct.

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