Question

The magnitude of crystal field stabilization energy in tetrahedral complexes (CFSE of $\Delta_t)$ is considerably less than that in the octahedral field because

• A. there are only four ligands instead of six so the ligand field is only 2/3 the size hence the $\Delta_t$ is 2/3.
• B. the direction of the orbitals does not coincide with the direciton of the ligands. This reduce the crystal field stabilization energy ($\Delta$) by further 2/3.
• C. Both points (1) and (2) are correct.
• D. Both points (1) and (2) are wrong.

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Both points (a) and (b) are correct.