The colour of coordination compounds and their ability to absorb visible light is primarily due to d-d transitions of electrons within the split d-orbitals. For this to occur, the central metal ion must have an incomplete d-subshell (unpaired electrons, configuration d1 to d9). Ions with d0 (empty) or d10 (fully filled) configurations do not undergo d-d transitions and are typically colourless.
Let's analyze the electronic configuration of the central metal ion in each option:
- [Sc(H₂O)₃(NH₃)₃]³⁺: Sc is in the +3 oxidation state. Configuration of Sc (Z=21) is [Ar]3d14s2. Sc3+ is 3d0. No d-electrons, so no colour.
- [Ti(en)₂(NH₃)₂]⁴⁺: Ti is in the +4 oxidation state. Configuration of Ti (Z=22) is [Ar]3d24s2. Ti4+ is 3d0. No d-electrons, so no colour.
- [Zn(NH₃)₆]²⁺: Zn is in the +2 oxidation state. Configuration of Zn (Z=30) is [Ar]3d104s2. Zn2+ is 3d10. Fully filled d-orbitals, so no d-d transitions possible. Colourless.
- [Cr(NH₃)₆]³⁺: Cr is in the +3 oxidation state. Configuration of Cr (Z=24) is [Ar]3d54s1. Cr3+ is 3d3. It has 3 unpaired electrons in the t2g level. d-d transitions are possible, so it absorbs visible light and appears coloured .