We determine the geometry and magnetic properties based on Valence Bond Theory:
- Oxidation State: In [Ni(CO)4], the ligand Carbonyl (CO) is neutral. Therefore, the oxidation state of Nickel (Ni) is 0.
- Electronic Configuration: Nickel (Z=28) in the ground state has the configuration [Ar]3d84s2. Since the oxidation state is 0, the configuration remains the same.
- Ligand Field Effect: CO is a very strong field ligand. Under its influence, the two electrons in the 4s orbital are forced to pair up with the electrons in the 3d orbitals. This results in a fully filled 3d10 configuration ([Ar]3d104s0).
- Hybridisation: To accommodate the four CO ligands, the empty 4s orbital and the three 4p orbitals undergo mixing to form four equivalent sp3 hybrid orbitals.
- Geometry: sp3 hybridisation corresponds to Tetrahedral geometry.
- Magnetic Behaviour: Since all the electrons in the 3d orbitals are paired (3d10), there are no unpaired electrons. Consequently, the complex is Diamagnetic.
Conclusion: The complex is tetrahedral and diamagnetic .