CBSE Class 12 Chemistry – Coordination Compounds

Chapter Overview

The chapter 'Coordination Compounds' introduces complex chemical species formed by a central metal atom or ion surrounded by ligands. It covers important concepts such as types of ligands, coordination number, nomenclature, isomerism, bonding theories (Werner's theory, VBT, and CFT), and applications. Students explore the stability and color of complexes, biological significance, and the role of coordination compounds in medicines, metallurgy, and catalysis.

Important Keywords

• Coordination Compound: A compound consisting of a central metal atom bonded to ligands.
• Ligand: An ion or molecule that donates a lone pair to the central atom (e.g., NH₃, H₂O, Cl⁻).
• Coordination Number: Number of ligand donor atoms directly bonded to the metal center.
• Coordination Sphere: The central metal ion and the ligands directly attached to it, enclosed in square brackets.
• Isomerism: Structural and stereoisomerism found in coordination compounds.
• Werner’s Theory: First theory explaining the structures of coordination compounds.
• VBT (Valence Bond Theory): Explains bonding and geometry of complexes based on hybridization.
• CFT (Crystal Field Theory): Explains color, magnetic properties, and stability based on d-orbital splitting.
• Chelate: A complex where ligand forms multiple bonds with the central atom.
• Ambidentate Ligand: A ligand that can coordinate through two different atoms (e.g., NO₂⁻).