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Coordination Complexes quiz #1

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Terms in this set (10)

  • What is the coordination number of the chromium ion in the complex ion [Cr(en)3]3+?
    The coordination number of the chromium ion in [Cr(en)3]3+ is 6, because each ethylenediamine (en) ligand is bidentate and there are 3 en ligands, resulting in 3 × 2 = 6 donor atoms bonded to chromium.
  • What is the coordination number of the metal atom in a coordination complex?
    The coordination number of the metal atom in a coordination complex is the number of ligand atoms directly bonded to the central metal ion, commonly 2, 4, or 6.
  • Which geometry or geometries are common for complexes with a coordination number of 6?
    The most common geometry for complexes with a coordination number of 6 is octahedral.
  • What is the role of a counter ion in a coordination complex?
    A counter ion balances the charge of the complex ion to ensure the overall compound is neutral.
  • How do ligands interact with the central metal ion in a coordination complex?
    Ligands donate electron pairs to the metal ion, forming coordinate covalent bonds and acting as Lewis bases.
  • What is a chelating agent and why is it important in coordination chemistry?
    A chelating agent is a ligand with multiple donor atoms that can form rings with the metal ion, increasing stability of the complex.
  • How does the electron configuration of a metal ion influence the geometry of its coordination complex?
    Metal ions with a d10 configuration tend to form tetrahedral complexes, while those with a d8 configuration often form square planar complexes.
  • What distinguishes a bidentate ligand from a monodentate ligand?
    A bidentate ligand has two atoms that can donate electron pairs to the metal, while a monodentate ligand has only one donor atom.
  • Why is EDTA commonly used in food and household products?
    EDTA binds to trace metal ions, removing them and helping to preserve food and prevent spoilage.
  • What is the significance of the brackets in the formula of a complex ion?
    Brackets indicate the species that make up the complex ion, separating it from the counter ions in the overall compound.