Question:medium

Which of the following species is not stable ?

Updated On: May 15, 2026
  • $[Sn(OH)_6]^{2-}$
  • $[SiCl_6]^{2-}$
  • $[SiF_6]^{2-}$
  • $[GeCl_6]^{2-}$
Show Solution

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

The question asks us to determine which of the following species is not stable among the given options. Let's evaluate each species:

  1. $[Sn(OH)_6]^{2-}$ — This is a stable complex. Tin (Sn) can form stable complexes with hydroxide ions.
  2. $[SiCl_6]^{2-}$ — Silica (Si) usually forms a stable tetrahedral $SiCl_4$. The formation of a hexachloro complex is not typical and is considered unstable.
  3. $[SiF_6]^{2-}$ — This is a stable compound known as hexafluorosilicate. It is formed because fluoride ions can effectively stabilize such compounds.
  4. $[GeCl_6]^{2-}$ — Germanium can form stable hexachlorogermanate complexes, similar to silicon.

Upon reviewing the stability of each species, $[SiCl_6]^{2-}$ stands out as the unstable compound. This is due to the fact that silicon typically does not stabilize its chlorides in a hexachloride form, unlike its fluorides and germanium's chlorides. Therefore, $[SiCl_6]^{2-}$ is the correct answer.

Conclusion: The species that is not stable is $[SiCl_6]^{2-}$.

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