Question
Question: Regarding complex formation by \({2^{nd}}\) group metals, the correct statement (s) is/are: This q...
Regarding complex formation by 2nd group metals, the correct statement (s) is/are:
This question has multiple correct options
A. Beryllium forms complexes only with halide ligands.
B. Mg2+ and Ca2+ can form complexes with EDTA, while Be2+ cannot.
C. Be2+ forms complexes with oxalic acid, catechol to give tetrahedral complexes.
D. In chlorophyll, 2 N-atoms of porphyrin ring are bonded to the magnesium atom in the complex
Solution
The 2nd group metal of the periodic table forms different metal complexes by joining with different types of ligand. The coordination complex formed depends on the type of ligand. Example EDTA is a hexadentate ligand.
Complete step by step answer:
The size of beryllium cation is very small due to high polarization characteristics which help beryllium to form covalent bond and binds with several halides ligands like F−, Cl− and ligand apart from halide like H2O, oxalic acid and catechol. So the statement: Beryllium forms complexes only with halide ligand is incorrect.
The Mg2+ cation and Ca2+ cation forms a six coordination complex with EDTA which is a hexadentate ligand. But in Be2+, the d-orbital is vacant due to which it cannot form six coordination complexes rather than form a four coordination complex. So the statement: Mg2+ and Ca2+ can form complexes with EDTA, while Be2+ cannot is correct.
As in Be2+, the d-orbital is vacant due to which it cannot form six coordination complex therefore, it forms a four coordination complex. Thus, it forms a tetrahedral complex with oxalic acid. Therefore, this option is correct.
In chlorophyll molecules, the 4-N atom of the porphyrin ring is joined with the magnesium atom in the complex. Thus, the given statement: In chlorophyll, 2 N-atoms of porphyrin ring are bonded to the magnesium atom in the complex is incorrect.
Therefore, the correct option is B and C.
Note:
Because of higher positive charge of group 2 elements, the alkaline earth element forms complexes with Lewis base as compared to alkali metal. The tendency to form complex by group 2 element decreases as the atomic radii of metal ions increases.