Draw [Cu(H2O)6]2+ and explain why is it blue in colour.

[Cu(H2O)6]2+ is and octahedral shaped complex which I shall draw on the whiteboard.

It is blue for thw following reasons:

When the water ligands bond to the Cu2+ ion, it causes the d orbitals to split into 2 sets at different energy levels. Electrons in the lower energy d-orbitals absorb red light to promote the electrons to a higher energy d-orbital. This means blue light will be reflected and hence the colour of the complex is blue.

AJ
Answered by Amaya J. Chemistry tutor

61494 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

In order to find the [H+] ion content of H2SO4 (Sulphuric Acid), why must you divide by two after using the formula for pH calculation?


In what conditions does sodium chloride conduct electricity and why?


What chemical test can be used to differentiate between alkenes and alkanes. Describe and explain the results.


Discuss the reactivity benzene, chlorobenzene, toluene and phenol in electrophillic aromatic substitution


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning