5 Questions
Explain the formation of a coordination compound using the example of the reaction between ferrous sulphate and aqueous potassium cyanide.
When an excess of aqueous potassium cyanide is added to aqueous ferrous sulphate, the reaction produces a yellow solution and forms the metal complex ion [Fe(CN)6]4-. This product can be isolated as its potassium salt K4[Fe(CN)6], and it is referred to as a coordination compound. The process of forming a coordination compound from a metal is called complexation.
Define coordination compounds and coordination complexes, and explain the role of ligands in coordination compounds.
Coordination compounds are chemical compounds consisting of an array of anions or neutral molecules that are bound to a central atom via coordinate covalent bonds. They are also referred to as coordination complexes. The molecules or ions bound to the central atom are called ligands or complexing agents, and they play a crucial role in forming coordination compounds.
What is the significance of the term 'coordination entity' in the context of coordination compounds?
The coordination entity, often denoted within brackets, refers to the complex species formed during the formation of a coordination compound. It is a central metal atom or ion bonded to the ligands, and its formula is written within brackets to distinguish it as a coordination entity.
Explain the concept of a metal complex ion using the example of [Fe(CN)6]4- in the reaction with aqueous potassium cyanide.
The metal complex ion [Fe(CN)6]4- is formed when aqueous potassium cyanide reacts with aqueous ferrous sulphate. It is a coordination compound in which the central iron ion is surrounded by six cyanide ligands. This complex ion can be isolated as its potassium salt K4[Fe(CN)6], and it demonstrates the formation of a coordination compound through complexation.
Discuss the nature of the bonds involved in coordination compounds, particularly the bonds between the central atom and the ligands.
Coordination compounds involve coordinate covalent bonds between the central atom and the ligands. These bonds are formed when the ligands donate a pair of electrons to the central atom, resulting in the formation of a stable complex. The coordination bonds play a fundamental role in the structure and properties of coordination compounds.
Test your knowledge of coordination compounds with this quiz! Explore the concept of ligands, central atoms, and coordinate covalent bonds in these unique chemical compounds.
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