Question

Identify the correct statement(s) about ${\left[Cu{\left(N{H}_3\right)}_4\right]}^{2+}$:

• A. The complex is tetrahedral
• B. The complex is square planar
• C. $C{u}^{2+}$ in the complex is $ds{p}^2$ hybridized
• D. $C{u}^{2+}$ in the complex is $s{p}^2$ hybridized

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (C)

$C{u}^{2+}$ in the complex is $ds{p}^2$ hybridized

Since $N{H}_3$ is a neutral ligand, we can say that $Cu$ has a +2 oxidation state in ${\left[Cu{\left(N{H}_3\right)}_4\right]}^{2+}$. This means that it has $d^8$ electronic configuration.
Most $d^8$ configuration central atoms have the tendency to form square planar complexes. In such a case, the expected hybridization is $ds{p}^2$.