Explain with two examples each of the fo | Class 12 Chemistry Chapter Coordination Compounds, Coordination Compounds NCERT Solutions

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Academic session 2026-27, Chapter 5 in the current curriculum.

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Chemistry - Chapter Coordination Compounds. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 2, Question 3:

Explain with two examples each of the following: coordination entity, ligand, coordination number, coordination polyhedron, homoleptic and heteroleptic.

. With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 3:

Explain with two examples each of the following: coordination entity, ligand, coordination number, coordination polyhedron, homoleptic and heteroleptic.

Answer:

(i) Coordination entity:

A coordination entity is an electrically charged radical or species carrying a positive or negative charge. In a coordination entity, the central atom or ion is surrounded by a suitable number of neutral molecules or negative ions ( called ligands). For example:

[Ni(NH3)6]2+  , [Fe(CN6)]4+ = cationic complex

[PtCl4]2-  ,  [Ag(CN)2]-       = anionic complex

[Ni(CO)4] , [Co(NH3)4 Cl2] = neutral complex

 

(ii) Ligands The neutral molecules or negatively charged ions that surround the metal atom in a coordination entity or a coordinal complex are known as ligands. For example,, Cl - , - OH. Ligands are usually polar in nature and possess at least one unshared pair of valence electrons.

 

(iii) Coordination number: The total number of ligands (either neutral molecules or negative ions) that get attached to the central metal atom in the coordination sphere is called the coordination number of the central metal atom. It is also referred to as its ligancy.

For example:

(a) In the complex, K2[PtCl6], there as six chloride ions attached to Pt in the coordinate sphere. Therefore, the coordination number of Pt is 6.

(b) Similarly, in the complex [Ni(NH3)4]Cl2, the coordination number of the central atom (Ni) is 4.

(iv) Coordination polyhedron: Coordination polyhedrons about the central atom can be defined as the spatial arrangement of the ligands that are directly attached to the central metal ion in the coordination sphere. For example: (a) (b) Tetrahedral

 

(v) Homoleptic complexes: These are those complexes in which the metal ion is bound to only one kind of a donor group. For eg: [Co(NH3)6]3+ , [PtCl4]2-  etc.

(vi) Heteroleptic complexes: Heteroleptic complexes are those complexes where the central metal ion is bound to more than one type of a donor group. For e.g.:  [Co(NH3)4 Cl2]+ , [Co(NH3)5 Cl]2+


Study Tips for Answering NCERT Questions:

NCERT questions are designed to test your understanding of the concepts and theories discussed in the chapter. Here are some tips to help you answer NCERT questions effectively:

  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about Coordination Compounds.
  • Review previous year question papers to get an idea of how such questions may be framed in exams.
  • Practice answering questions within the time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Discuss your answers with your teachers or peers to get feedback and improve your understanding.

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Comments

  • gugan
  • Jul 05, 2019

what is mean by coordination entity and how to find it form a complex


  • Sanjit boro
  • Sep 13, 2018

What are ligands?


  • Shadb Alam
  • Aug 21, 2018

Nice explanation.


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Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Chemistry - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 2 , Question 3: Explain with two examples each of the following: coordination entity, ligand, coordination number, c....

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