Low Spin Complex
A complex in which electrons pair in the lower d orbitals rather than occupying the upper set.
Formula / equation
Δ > P
Unit
BM
In depth
Low spin configurations occur with strong field ligands and with second- and third-row transition metals, whose more diffuse d orbitals give larger splittings. They have fewer unpaired electrons, smaller magnetic moments and greater crystal field stabilisation.
Examples in the real world
[Fe(CN)₆]⁴⁻ with all six electrons paired in t₂g, making it diamagnetic and very inert.