\b[In the stipulated ideal, fully resolved limit, yes:] square-planar geometry gives three infrared fundamentals, whereas square-pyramidal geometry gives four: two parallel $A_1$ bands and two perpendicular $E$ bands. The extra parallel fundamental is the distinguishing feature. In a real incomplete spectrum, a weak band, overlap or accidental degeneracy could hide that difference, so absence of a fourth observed band would not alone prove planarity.


Solution

Past exam of the chemistry course of the year 3 of the natural sciences course of the University of Cambridge / 2021 / Paper 2A / Section B / 21 / b / ii / Solution

 Solution (source code)