Question 1
Question detail
What is a ligand in coordination chemistry?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Transition metals (A-level only)
Question
- A. A molecule that donates a pair of electrons to a metal ion
- B. A metal ion that forms a complex
- C. A type of coordinate bond
- D. A molecule that only accepts electrons
Answer
A molecule that donates a pair of electrons to a metal ion
Explanation
A ligand is defined as a molecule or ion that can donate a pair of electrons to a metal ion, forming a coordinate bond. This is essential in the formation of complex ions.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Ligands
Students often confuse ligands with simple ions, thinking all ligands are charged particles.
A ligand is a molecule or ion that donates a pair of electrons to a transition metal to form a coordinate bond. Remember that ligands can be neutral molecules (like water) or charged ions (like chloride), but they are not simply ions themselves.
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