Both [NiCl4]2- and [Ni(CO)4] are tetrahedral, which of these are paramagnetic in nature?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
In [NiCl4]2-
x + 4(-1) = -2
x - 4 = -2
x = -2 + 4 = +2
Ni2+: [Ar]3d8
In [Ni(CO)4]
x + 4(0) = 0
x = 0
Ni: [Ar]4s23d10
As Cl- is a weak field ligand, it will not pair up the electrons in 3d-orbital.
Hence, there will be two unpaired electrons and [NiCl4]2- is paramagnetic in nature.