24. Transition Metals and Coordination Compounds
Crystal Field Theory: Octahedral Complexes
Consider the isomeric complexes [Co(NH3)5(SCN)]2+ and [Co(NH3)5(NCS)]2+. The complex ion [Co(NH3)5(SCN)]2+ is violet-colored, while [Co(NH3)5(NCS)]2+ is orange-colored. Determine which ligand is a stronger-field ligand, thiocyanato (–SCN) or isothiocyanato (–NCS). Justify your answer.