Ligands

Definition

Ligands are ions or molecules that can donate a pair of electrons to a central atom or ion to form a coordination complex. They act as Lewis bases in this interaction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ligands can be neutral molecules like H2O or NH3, or anions like Cl- or CN-.
2. The strength of the ligand's interaction with the central atom is known as the ligand field strength.
3. Ligands can be categorized based on their denticity, which refers to the number of donor atoms they have available for binding.
4. In transition metal complexes, ligands play a crucial role in determining the geometry and electronic properties of the complex.
5. Common geometries formed by ligands around central metal ions include octahedral, tetrahedral, and square planar.

Review Questions

Related terms

Coordination Complex: A structure consisting of a central atom or ion bonded to surrounding ligands through coordinate covalent bonds.

Lewis Base:

A substance that donates an electron pair to form a covalent bond.

Denticity: The number of donor atoms in a ligand that can bind to a single central metal ion.