O

Octahedral

ML₆
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationML₆
Also Known AsOctahedral coordination, 6-coordinate octahedral, ML₆ geometry

What is Octahedral?

A molecular geometry with six bonds arranged symmetrically around a central atom, like the vertices of an octahedron. Bond angles are 90°. Common in transition metal complexes with six ligands (e.g., [Fe(CN)₆]³⁻). sp³d² or d²sp³ hybridization corresponds to octahedral geometry.

Formula & Notation

ML₆

Other Names / Synonyms: Octahedral coordination, 6-coordinate octahedral, ML₆ geometry

Properties & Characteristics

Octahedral geometry is a molecular shape in which a central atom is surrounded by six ligands or atoms at the vertices of a regular octahedron, with bond angles of 90°. It is the most common geometry in coordination chemistry, adopted by six-coordinate transition metal complexes: [Co(NH₃)₆]³⁺, [Fe(CN)₆]⁴⁻, SF₆, PCl₅ (not octahedral — trigonal bipyramidal), [Cr(H₂O)₆]³⁺. VSEPR predicts 6 electron domains → octahedral electron geometry.

Uses & Applications

Octahedral coordination is prevalent in: transition metal chemistry (most 6-coordinate complexes), biochemistry (vitamin B₁₂ cobalt centre, iron in haemoglobin precursors), crystal field theory analysis (d-orbital splitting in octahedral field: t₂g/eg), spectroscopic assignments (d-d transitions for octahedral geometry), and in solid-state chemistry (NaCl, TiO₂ rutile structures have octahedral coordination).

Safety Information

No direct safety concern for the geometry. Octahedral complexes of toxic metals (Cr(VI)O₂Cl₂, Fe(CO)₅, cisplatin) pose hazards determined by the metal and ligands, not the geometry per se.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Octahedral
Formula ML₆
Synonyms Octahedral coordination, 6-coordinate octahedral, ML₆ geometry

Frequently Asked Questions

A molecular geometry with six bonds arranged symmetrically around a central atom, like the vertices of an octahedron. Bond angles are 90°. Common in transition metal complexes with six ligands (e.g., [Fe(CN)₆]³⁻). sp³d² or d²sp³ hybridization corresponds to octahedral geometry.

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