Question:medium

What is the value of x on the \([Ni(CN)_4]^x\) complex ion?

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Always sum metal charge and ligand charges to get overall charge.
Updated On: Jun 16, 2026
  • +2
  • -2
  • 0 (zero)
  • +4
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

To find the value of x in the complex ion \([Ni(CN)_4]^x\), we need to consider the oxidation states of the elements involved in the complex.

The central metal atom is Nickel (Ni). In most complexes, Nickel can exhibit oxidation states of +2 or +3. However, in typical cyanide complexes like \([Ni(CN)_4]^{2-}\), Nickel usually exhibits an oxidation state of +2.

Each cyanide ion (CN-) has a charge of -1. Since there are four cyanide ions, the total charge contributed by the cyanide ions is:

\(4 \times (-1) = -4\)

Let's assume the oxidation state of Nickel in \([Ni(CN)_4]^x\) is +2. Therefore, the expression for the charge of the entire complex ion will be:

\(+2 + (-4) = -2\)

This means the overall charge on the complex ion \([Ni(CN)_4]\) is -2, which corresponds to the given charge of x.

Thus, the oxidation state and the value of x in the \([Ni(CN)_4]^x\) complex ion is -2.

Element/IonOxidation StateNumberTotal Charge Contribution
Ni+21+2
CN--14-4
Total Charge on Complex-2

Therefore, the correct answer is -2.

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