Explain why $[Co(NH_{3})_{6}]^{3+}$ is an inner orbital complex whereas $[Ni(NH_{3})_{6}]^{2+}$ is an outer orbital complex.

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$[Co(NH_{3})_{6}]^{3+}$$[Ni(NH_{3})_{6}]^{2+}$
Oxidation state of cobalt $= +3$Oxidation state of nickel $= +2$
Electronic configuration of cobalt ion $(Co^{3+})$ $= 3d^{6}$Electronic configuration of nickel ion $(Ni^{2+})$ $= 3d^{8}$
$NH_{3}$ is a strong field ligand,which causes pairing of electrons in the $3d$ orbitals. This makes two $3d$ orbitals available for $d^{2}sp^{3}$ hybridization. Hence,it is an inner orbital complex.Even with $NH_{3}$ as a ligand,the $3d^{8}$ configuration leaves only one $3d$ orbital empty after pairing. Thus,it cannot undergo $d^{2}sp^{3}$ hybridization and instead undergoes $sp^{3}d^{2}$ hybridization using $4d$ orbitals. Hence,it is an outer orbital complex.

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