Question

The metal ion, ligands present in Wilkinson catalyst are respectively

• A. $Rh^{3+}, Cl^{-}, PPh_{3}$
• B. $Rh^{+}, Cl^{-}, PPh_{3}$
• C. $Rh^{2+}, Br^{-}, PPh_{3}$
• D. $Re^{+}, I^{-}, P(CH_{3})_{3}$

Hint:

Remember: Wilkinson's catalyst contains Rhodium in the $+1$ oxidation state.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Recall Wilkinson catalyst.
Wilkinson's catalyst is used to add hydrogen to alkenes in a homogeneous way. Its formula is $RhCl(PPh_3)_3$.

Step 2: Name the parts.
In this formula, Rh is rhodium, Cl is chloride, and $PPh_3$ is triphenylphosphine. The chloride and the phosphines are the ligands.

Step 3: Note the ligand charges.
Triphenylphosphine is a neutral ligand, so it carries no charge. Chloride carries a charge of $-1$.

Step 4: Find the metal oxidation state.
For the whole complex to be neutral, the rhodium must balance the single $-1$ from chloride. So rhodium is in the $+1$ state.

Step 5: Write the species.
So the metal ion is $Rh^+$, one ligand is $Cl^-$, and the other ligand is $PPh_3$.

Step 6: State the answer.
The metal ion and ligands are $Rh^+$, $Cl^-$ and $PPh_3$. \[ \boxed{Rh^+,\ Cl^-,\ PPh_3} \]