key term - [Cu(NH3)4]2+

Definition

[Cu(NH3)4]2+ is a coordination complex formed by a central copper(II) ion surrounded by four ammonia ligands. It is an important example of the coordination chemistry of transition metals, which involves the formation of complex species with a central metal atom and attached ligands.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The copper(II) ion in [Cu(NH3)4]2+ has an oxidation state of +2, meaning it has lost two electrons from its neutral state.
2. The four ammonia ligands in [Cu(NH3)4]2+ are neutral molecules that donate their lone pair of electrons to the copper(II) ion, forming coordinate covalent bonds.
3. The geometry of the [Cu(NH3)4]2+ complex is square planar, with the four ammonia ligands arranged in a plane around the central copper(II) ion.
4. Coordination complexes like [Cu(NH3)4]2+ are important in various biological and industrial processes, such as catalysis, metal ion transport, and the treatment of metal poisoning.
5. The stability and properties of coordination complexes can be influenced by factors such as the nature of the central metal ion, the ligands, and the oxidation state of the metal.

Review Questions

• Explain the bonding in the [Cu(NH3)4]2+ coordination complex.
  • In the [Cu(NH3)4]2+ coordination complex, the central copper(II) ion has a +2 oxidation state and is surrounded by four ammonia (NH3) ligands. The copper(II) ion has an empty d-orbital that can accept the lone pair of electrons from each of the four ammonia ligands, forming coordinate covalent bonds. This results in a square planar geometry, with the four ammonia ligands arranged in a plane around the central copper(II) ion.
• Describe the factors that influence the stability and properties of the [Cu(NH3)4]2+ coordination complex.
  • The stability and properties of the [Cu(NH3)4]2+ coordination complex are influenced by several factors, including the nature of the central metal ion, the ligands, and the oxidation state of the metal. The copper(II) ion has a +2 oxidation state, which determines the overall charge of the complex. The four ammonia ligands are neutral molecules that form coordinate covalent bonds with the copper(II) ion, contributing to the stability of the complex. Additionally, the square planar geometry of the complex affects its reactivity and spectroscopic properties, which can be further influenced by factors such as the electronegativity and polarizability of the ligands and the metal ion.
• Discuss the importance of coordination complexes like [Cu(NH3)4]2+ in various biological and industrial processes.
  • Coordination complexes like [Cu(NH3)4]2+ are crucial in a variety of biological and industrial processes. In biology, coordination complexes are involved in the transport and storage of metal ions, catalysis of enzymatic reactions, and the treatment of metal poisoning. For example, the copper(II) ion in [Cu(NH3)4]2+ can mimic the behavior of the copper(II) ion in certain enzymes, allowing it to participate in redox reactions and catalyze various chemical transformations. In industry, coordination complexes are used in catalysis, metal extraction and purification, and the development of new materials with unique properties. The ability to fine-tune the structure and properties of coordination complexes by varying the central metal ion and ligands makes them valuable in a wide range of applications.

Related terms

Coordination Complex: A coordination complex is a compound consisting of a central metal atom or ion bonded to a number of surrounding ligands.

Ligand:

A ligand is an ion or molecule that is bonded to a central metal atom or ion in a coordination complex.

Oxidation State:

The oxidation state of an atom in a compound is a measure of the degree of oxidation of the atom, and is represented by a number that is generally positive.