A coordination compound is a substance made up of a central metal atom or ion surrounded by molecules or ions called ligands. These ligands are attached to the metal through coordinate bonds, where the ligand donates an electron pair to the metal.
Key Points:
- The central metal is usually a transition metal with empty orbitals to accept electrons.
- Ligands can be simple ions or molecules and may attach through one or more donor atoms.
- The arrangement of ligands around the metal determines the shape and properties of the compound.
- Coordination compounds often have distinct colors, magnetic properties, and can act as catalysts.
- Examples include metal complexes in medicine, industry, and biology, such as compounds in hemoglobin or chlorophyll.
In short, it is a chemical complex where a metal is held together with surrounding ligands, forming a stable structure with unique properties.