Coordination Compounds Nomenclature Quiz and Flashcards

Study Notes

Nomenclature of Coordination Compounds

Coordination compounds are chemical compounds that consist of an array of anions or neutral molecules bound to a central atom via coordinate covalent bonds. These compounds have their own naming system, which is essential for understanding and identifying them. The naming of coordination compounds involves several rules and conventions, which are outlined below.

Formula of Coordination Compounds

The formula of a coordination compound follows the pattern [Metal ligands]±Charge. The order of ligand names in the formula is not ambiguous, and the IUPAC recommends listing all ligand names alphabetically. For example, the formula for a coordination compound with a central copper atom and two ammonia ligands would be written as [Cu(NH3)2].

Naming of Ligands

Ligands in coordination compounds can be positive or negative ions, and they are named accordingly. Positive ligands end in "-o" (e.g., CN- for cyanide), while negative ligands end in "-o" (e.g., Cl- for chloride). Some specific names are assigned to certain ligands, such as:

NH3 (ammine)
H2O (aqua or aquo)
CO (carbonyl)
NO (nitrosyl)

Naming of Coordination Compounds

The name of the central atom or ion is written after the ligands, with the oxidation state specified using Roman numerals if necessary. If the complex has an anionic charge, the suffix "-ate" is applied. For example, the name of a coordination compound with a central copper atom, two ammonia ligands, and a chloride anion would be [Cu(NH3)2Cl].

In cases where the coordination compound is accompanied by a counterion, the cationic entity is written before the anionic entity. For example, the name of a coordination compound with a central copper atom, two ammonia ligands, and a chloride anion, along with a sodium counterion, would be [Cu(NH3)2Cl]Na.

Examples of Naming Coordination Compounds

Here are some examples of naming coordination compounds:

K4[Fe(CN)6]: This compound has a central iron atom, six cyanide ligands, and a potassium counterion.
[Co(NH3)4(H2O)Cl] Cl2: This compound has a central cobalt atom, four ammonia ligands, one water ligand, and a chloride anion.
[Co(NH3)3(NO2)3]: This compound has a central cobalt atom, three ammonia ligands, and three nitrite ligands.

In conclusion, the naming of coordination compounds involves specific rules and conventions for ligands, central atoms, and charges. Understanding these rules is crucial for accurately identifying and studying these complex molecules in various fields, such as photography, medicine, and materials science.

Description

Test your knowledge of the naming system for coordination compounds, including the formula, naming of ligands, and naming of coordination compounds with examples. This quiz covers the essential rules and conventions for accurately identifying and understanding complex coordination compounds.