Crystal field theory of transition metal complexes

Although little use is made now of the theory presented in this chapter, it contains the basis of all of those that are used. It provides the foundation, particularly for the understanding of spectral and magnetic properties; all else is elaboration and refinement. A knowledge of simple crystal field theory is therefore essential to an understanding of the key properties of transition metal complexes and particularly those covered in Chapters 8 and 9. This chapter deals exclusively with transition metal complexes. In one or more of their valence states, the ions of transition metals have their d orbitals incompletely filled with electrons. As a result, their complexes have characteristics not shared by complexes of the main group elements. It is the details of the description of these incompletely filled shells which is our present concern; this is in contrast to the discussion of the previous chapter where the topic was scarcely addressed. Ions of the lanthanides and actinides elements have incompletely filled f orbitals and so necessitate a separate discussion which will be given in Chapter 11.