Cyanide ligands can form a tetrahedral geometry with Co2+ under specific conditions, primarily influenced by the repulsion of lone pairs on nitrogen atoms. The discussion references Co(CN)53- as a complex where this geometry is observed, contrasting it with Ni(CN)42-, which adopts a square planar configuration. The geometry of these complexes is determined by the electronic interactions and steric factors associated with the ligands.
PREREQUISITESChemistry students, researchers in coordination chemistry, and professionals working with transition metal complexes will benefit from this discussion.