Weak Field Ligand
| Also Known As | Low field ligand, weak field ligand (spectrochemical series), σ-donor ligand |
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What is Weak Field Ligand?
A ligand that causes small d-orbital splitting (small crystal field splitting energy Δ) in transition metal complexes. Weak-field ligands produce high-spin complexes because electrons prefer to occupy higher orbitals rather than pair up. Examples include F⁻, Cl⁻, Br⁻, I⁻, and H₂O.
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A ligand that causes small d-orbital splitting (small crystal field splitting energy Δ) in transition metal complexes. Weak-field ligands produce high-spin complexes because electrons prefer to occupy higher orbitals rather than pair up. Examples include F⁻, Cl⁻, Br⁻, I⁻, and H₂O.
Weak field ligands are used to produce high-spin transition metal complexes used in bioinorganic chemistry and as magnetic materials. Iron(III) with weak field ligands produces high-spin complexes relevant to haemoglobin function. Understanding ligand field strength guides the design of metal comple…
Ligands such as cyanide and carbon monoxide are strong field but toxic. Weak field ligands include halides and water, which are less acutely toxic. The safety of a complex depends on both the metal and the ligand.