To determine the shape of the transition metal complex MX4²⁺ with a 0 electron configuration, we need to carefully analyze the given information step-by-step.
1. Understanding the Formula:
- The complex formula is given as MX4²⁺, which indicates a metal ion (M) coordinated to four ligands (X) with a +2 charge on the entire complex.
2. Coordination Number:
- The formula MX4 implies that the coordination number around the metal ion is 4. Coordination number refers to the number of ligand atoms bonded directly to the central metal ion.
3. Electron Configuration:
- The metal ion is specified to have a 0 electron configuration. This means there are no d-electrons present on the transition metal ion. Transition metals commonly have partially filled d-orbitals, but in this case, there are none.
4. Possible Geometries for Coordination Number 4:
- For a coordination number of 4, several possible geometries can arise:
- Tetrahedral: The ligands are positioned at the corners of a tetrahedron relative to the central metal. This is a common geometry for coordination number 4.
- Square Planar: The ligands are arranged at the corners of a square plane around the metal. However, this geometry is less common and usually requires a specific electronic structure that favors square planar configuration.
- Other less common geometries like see-saw or trigonal pyramid are generally not considered for typical transition metal complexes with coordination number 4 without additional electronic or steric influences.
5. Determining the Most Likely Geometry:
- Given that the metal ion has a 0 electron configuration (no d-electrons) and the coordination number is 4, the ligands likely arrange themselves to achieve maximum separation and minimize electron repulsion.
- The tetrahedral geometry naturally allows four ligands to be as far apart as possible, which stabilizes the complex in the absence of electron repulsion from d-electrons.
Therefore, given these considerations, the most likely shape for this transition metal complex with a coordination number of 4 and a 0 electron configuration is:
C. Tetrahedral
