Linkage isomers

Definition

Linkage isomers are coordination compounds that have the same composition but differ in the connectivity of a ligand to the central metal atom. This occurs when a ligand can coordinate to the metal through two or more different atoms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Linkage isomerism commonly involves ligands such as $NO_2^-$ (nitrite) and $SCN^-$ (thiocyanate) that can bind through different atoms.
2. For nitrite linkage isomers, one form binds through nitrogen ($\text{M-NO}_2$) and the other through oxygen ($\text{M-ONO}$).
3. Linkage isomerism affects the properties of the compound, including its color, reactivity, and spectroscopic characteristics.
4. The phenomenon of linkage isomerism was first identified in complexes containing nitrite ions by Alfred Werner in the early 20th century.
5. Spectroscopic techniques like IR and NMR can be used to distinguish between linkage isomers.

Review Questions

Related terms

Coordination Compound: A complex consisting of a central metal atom or ion bonded to surrounding ligands.

Ligand:

An ion or molecule that binds to a central metal atom to form a coordination complex.

$NO_2^-$: $NO_2^-$ (nitrite) is an ambidentate ligand that can coordinate to a metal center either through nitrogen or oxygen.