Question

Which of the following has square planar geometry?

• A. $[CoC{l}_4{]}^{2-}$
• B. $[FeC{l}_4{]}^{2-}$
• C. $[NiC{l}_4{]}^{2-}$
• D. $[PtC{l}_4{]}^{2-}$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $[PtC{l}_4{]}^{2-}$

$P{t}^{2+}$ ion has the configuration $5d^8$
i.e.,
$C{l}^{-}$ is a weak ligand but causes pairing of electrons in 5d, making one 5d orbital available. This gives $ds{p}^2$ hybridisation and square planar geometry.