Perfect solutions stability with respect

The crystal held model can also be used to account For the stability of particular oxidation states. In aqueous solution Co(lll) is unstable with respect to reduction by water to form Co(Il)- Although there are several energy terms involved, this may be viewed as a reflection of the high third ionization energy of cobalt. If various moderate-to-strong field ligands are present in the solution, however. theCo(IIl)ion is perfectly stable. In fact, m some cases it is difficult or impossible to prevent the oxidation of Co(ll) to Coflll). 

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