Answer: Rapid exchange of axial and equatorial CO positions at room temperature via Berry pseudorotation.
- A Rapid exchange of axial and equatorial CO positions at room temperature via Berry pseudorotation
- B A largely fixed, rigid structure with little exchange between CO positions as generally observed
- C Permanent loss of one CO ligand followed by its slow recoordination in typical laboratory settings
- D Spontaneous ring formation among the five coordinated CO ligands under usual circumstances
Correct answer: A. Rapid exchange of axial and equatorial CO positions at room temperature via Berry pseudorotation
Explanation: Berry pseudorotation in Fe(CO)<sub>5</sub>: a concerted movement interconverts axial and equatorial CO positions; 13C NMR shows all 5 CO equivalent even at room temperature.
The three common coordination geometries: octahedral (6 ligands), tetrahedral (4 ligands), and square planar (4 ligands in one plane).
Concept context
Study of compounds where a central metal atom is bonded to surrounding ligands. Covers nomenclature, types of isomerism, bonding theories (VBT, CFT), and applications in medicine, photography, and industry.