Need help from an expert?
The world’s top online tutoring provider trusted by students, parents, and schools globally.
The coordination number of transition metals in complexes varies with the number of ligands.
Transition metals can form coordination complexes with ligands, which are molecules or ions that bond to the metal ion through coordinate covalent bonds. The coordination number of a metal ion in a complex is the number of ligands attached to it. For example, a metal ion with four ligands attached to it has a coordination number of four.
The coordination number of transition metals in complexes can vary depending on the size and charge of the ligands, as well as the geometry of the complex. For example, a transition metal ion with six ligands attached to it can have a coordination number of six if the ligands are arranged in an octahedral geometry. However, if the ligands are arranged in a square planar geometry, the coordination number would be four.
Some common coordination numbers for transition metals in complexes include two, four, and six. For example, a metal ion with two ligands attached to it has a coordination number of two, and is known as a linear complex. A metal ion with four ligands attached to it has a coordination number of four, and can have a tetrahedral or square planar geometry.
Overall, the coordination number of transition metals in complexes can vary depending on the number and arrangement of ligands. This can have important implications for the properties and reactivity of these complexes, and is an important concept in the study of coordination chemistry.
Study and Practice for Free
Trusted by 100,000+ Students Worldwide
Achieve Top Grades in your Exams with our Free Resources.
Practice Questions, Study Notes, and Past Exam Papers for all Subjects!
The world’s top online tutoring provider trusted by students, parents, and schools globally.