Question

The geometry of $Ni\left(CO{)}_{4}andNi\right(P{H}_3{)}_{4}C{l}_2$ are

• A. both tetrahedral
• B. tetrahedral and square planar
• C. both square planar
• D. square planar and tetrahedral

Answer 1

The correct option is B tetrahedral and square planar

$Ni:3d^{8}4s^2$; under the influence of strong ligand $COinNi(CO{)}_4:3d^{10}–s{p}^3$ hybridisation (tetrahedral). In $Ni\left(P{H}_3\right)C{l}_2,N{i}^{2+}:3d^8–ds{p}^2$ hybridisation (2 electrons in 3d are forced to be paired up by strong ligand $P{H}_3$)