Linkage Isomerism
Arises when an ambidentate ligand can bind to the central metal atom through different donor atoms.
What is Linkage Isomerism?
A ligand that can coordinate to a central metal atom through more than one donor atom, but only one at a time.
Key points
- Define linkage isomerism.
- Identify ambidentate ligands.
- Differentiate between linkage isomers based on the donor atom.
- Provide examples of coordination compounds exhibiting linkage isomerism.
Common exam trap
Confusing linkage isomerism with other types of isomerism like ionization or hydration isomerism.
Definitions
- Term
Ambidentate Ligand
- Meaning
A ligand that can coordinate to a central metal atom through more than one donor atom, but only one at a time.
- Term
Linkage Isomerism
- Meaning
A type of structural isomerism in coordination compounds where isomers differ in the atom through which an ambidentate ligand is bonded to the central metal atom.
Learning objectives
Define linkage isomerism.
Identify ambidentate ligands.
Differentiate between linkage isomers based on the donor atom.
Provide examples of coordination compounds exhibiting linkage isomerism.
Prerequisites
Basic understanding of coordination compounds.
Knowledge of ligands and central metal ions.
Concept of donor atoms.
Understanding of isomerism.
Common mistakes
Confusing linkage isomerism with other types of isomerism like ionization or hydration isomerism.
Failing to recognize ligands as ambidentate.
Incorrectly identifying the donor atom in an ambidentate ligand.
Assuming all ligands with multiple heteroatoms are ambidentate.
Keywords
Linkage Isomerism
Coordination Compounds
Ambidentate Ligand
Donor Atom
Structural Isomerism
Nitro Ligand
Thiocyanate Ligand
Practice preview
The complex [Co(NH₃)₅(NO₂)]Cl₂ exhibits linkage isomerism. Which of the following is the correct representation of its linkage isomer?…
easy
Which of the following is an example of linkage isomerism in coordination compounds?…
easy
The complex [Fe(CN)₆]⁴⁻ exhibits linkage isomerism. Which of the following is NOT a possible linkage isomer of this complex?…
medium