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Question

The complex [Ni(CN)4]2 is diamagnetic and the complex [NiCl4]2 is paramagnetic. What can you conclude about their molecular geometries?

A
Both complex have square planar geometries
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B
Both complexes have tetrahedral geometries
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C
[NiCl4]2 has a square planar geometry while [Ni(CN)4]2 has a tetrahedral geometry
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D
[NiCl4]2 has a tetrahedral geometry while [Ni(CN)4]2 has a square planar geometry
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Solution

The correct option is D [NiCl4]2 has a tetrahedral geometry while [Ni(CN)4]2 has a square planar geometry
We have been asked about complexes in which Ni has a +2 oxidation state and coordination number 4. It is a d8 configuration. CN is a strong field ligand which means it forces pairing in the lower orbitals. Cl on the other hand, is a weak field ligand, which cannot force pairing of electrons.
[Ni(CN)4]2 is diamagnetic due to which it forms an inner orbital complex. This tells us it will form a square planar complex.
[NiCl4]2 is paramagnetic. Thus, it forms outer orbital complex which means it is tetrahedral in shape.

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