Question

Hybridisation and geometry of [Ni(CN)$_4$]$^{2-}$ are
 

• A. sp$^3$ and tetrahedral
• B. sp$^3$ and square planar
• C. sp$^3$ and tetrahedral
• D. dsp$^2$ and square planar

Hint:

Strong field ligands cause electron pairing and favor square planar geometries in transition metal complexes.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Metal Ion Identification
The oxidation state of Nickel in [Ni(CN)$_4$]$^{2-}$ is \( +2 \).
Its electronic configuration is \( 3d^8 4s^0 \).
Step 2: Ligand Influence
CN$^-$ is a strong field ligand, inducing electron pairing within the \( d \)-orbitals.
This results in dsp$^2$ hybridization, forming a square planar geometry.
Conclusion: [Ni(CN)$_4$]$^{2-}$ exhibits dsp$^2$ hybridization, resulting in a square planar configuration.