Answer to Question #265295 in Organic Chemistry for Jess

Question

With reference to the complex ion: [Mn (H2O)6 ] 2+; explain the following terms:

a. Ligands

b. Coordination number

c. Central metal ion. 

Answer 1

In coordination chemistry, a ligand is an ion or molecule (functional group) that binds to a central atom to form a coordination complex. The bonding with the metal generally involves formal donation of one or more of the ligand's electron pairs often through Lewis Bases.

coordination number, also called ligancy, of a central atom in a molecule or crystal is the number of atoms, molecules or ions bonded to it.

A coordination complex consists of a central atom or ion, which is usually metallic and is called the coordination centre, and a surrounding array of bound molecules or ions, that are in turn known as ligands or complexing agents.