Question

Explain the nomenclature of coordination compounds.

Answer 1

Hint: In order to answer this question, first we should know about the coordination compounds. Coordination compounds consist of ions and molecules which are linked or we can say coordinated to the transition metal ion. In this type of compounds, the central metal ions, i.e. mostly transition metal ions, are surrounded by the group of atoms and ions called ligands.

Complete answer:
Let’s first look at the definition of coordination compounds.
Coordination compounds are those compounds that contain coordination bonds. This consists of ions or molecules which are coordinated to the transition metal ion. Here, in this type of compound, the central metal ion i.e. transition metal is surrounded by the group of atoms or ions called ligands.
The nomenclature of the coordination compounds are as follows:
1. Name the ligand first then metal in the complex ions
2. If multiple ligands are present in a complex, then naming of neutral ligands will be first followed by negative ligands then positive ligands.
3. If ligands have the same charge then naming will be according to alphabetical order.
4. We can also use prefix like mono, di, tri etc. in case of monodentate ligands for denoting multiple ligands but in case of polydentate ligands, we use the prefix like bis, tris, tetrakis etc. in case of bi, tri, and tetra.
5. In case of anionic ligands, replace the term ‘ate’ with ‘ato’ and ‘ide’ with ‘ido’.
6. After naming all the ligands, we name the central metal ion or atom.
7. Also, write the oxidation number of a central metal ion or atom in roman number.
8. The name of the anion ends with the word ion.

Note:
Coordination compounds are used in various biological processes. It also plays an important role in industry and pharmaceuticals. It also acts as a catalyst in various industrial processes. So, we can say that coordination compounds are widely used. For example- Cis – platin is important coordination complex that plays a vital role in the treatment of cancer.