Q1. Attempt all questions. The marks for each question are indicated against it.
- a)) Give the classification of substitution mechanisms for octahedral complexes. (200 words)
- b)) Explain the mechanism of substitution reactions in trigonal bipyramidal complexes. (200 words)
- Octahedral substitution mechanisms are D (dissociative), A (associative), and I (interchange).
- Dissociative (D) mechanism forms a 5-coordinate intermediate, rate-limiting bond breaking.
- Associative (A) mechanism forms a 7-coordinate intermediate, rate-limiting bond making.
- Interchange (I) mechanism is concerted, with simultaneous bond breaking and making (Id or Ia).
Answer: Ligand substitution reactions in transition metal complexes are fundamental to understanding their reactivity. The mechanisms involved depend critically on the coordination number and geometry of the complex. For octahedral complexes, substitution typically proceeds via dissociative (D), associative (A), or interchange (I) pathways, each characterized by distinct intermediate structures or transition states. In contrast, 5-coordinate trigonal bipyramidal complexes often exhibit faster substituti...