Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · Chemistry of transition elements

Chemistry of transition elements — practice question

Fig. 4.1 shows the structure of the polydentate ligand, $\text{EDTA}^{4-}$. Table 4.1 gives the stability constants, at $298\,\text{K}$, for five octahedral complexes.
(a)[1]

Define stability constant in equilibrium terms.

(b)[1]

Calculate the oxidation states of Cu in $[\text{Cu(EDTA)}]^{2-}$ and Cr in $[\text{Cr(EDTA)}]^-$.

(c)[1]

Deduce how many lone pairs are donated by each $\text{EDTA}^{4-}$ ligand in one $[\text{Fe(EDTA)}]^{2-}$ complex ion.

(d)[1]

Identify the most stable complex in Table 4.1. Explain why you selected it.

(e)[2]

At equilibrium in a solution at $298\,\text{K}$, $[[\text{Cu(H}_2\text{O)}_6]^{2+}] = 3.00 \times 10^{-10}\,\text{mol dm}^{-3}$ and $[\text{EDTA}^{4-}] = 5.00 \times 10^{-12}\,\text{mol dm}^{-3}$. Use the expression for $K_{\text{stab}}$ to determine the concentration of $[\text{Cu(EDTA)}]^{2-}$ in this solution. Show your working.

(f)[2]

A solution containing $[\text{Cu(EDTA)}]^{2-}$ ions is pale blue, whereas a solution containing $[\text{Cu(NH}_3)_4(\text{H}_2\text{O})_2]^{2+}$ ions is deep blue. Explain this difference in colour.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Equilibrium constant for forming a complex from its constituent parts in a solvent

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