Grade 12

Grade 12Coordination compounds


Werner's theory and modern concepts


In the world of chemistry, coordination compounds hold a significant place due to their complexity and utility. Swiss chemist Alfred Werner proposed a revolutionary theory in the early 20th century that laid the foundation for modern coordination chemistry. This theory is important for understanding how different elements can form complex structures. The study of coordination compounds involves understanding how molecules form, interact, and can be applied in a variety of fields ranging from industrial applications to biological systems.

Werner's theory of coordination compounds

Alfred Werner presented a theory in 1893 that challenged the existing fundamental concepts of valency. The main idea of Werner's theory is that the behavior and structure of coordination compounds cannot be explained using simple ionic or covalent bonding. Take a closer look at the key aspects of Werner's theory:

Key concepts

  • Primary and secondary valency: Werner proposed that metal ions exhibit two types of valency:
    • Primary valency: This is the oxidation state of the metal ion and is completed by ions having a charge (positive or negative). For example, the primary valency of Cr in CrCl 3 is +3.
    • Secondary valency: This is the coordination number of the metal and represents the number of atoms directly bonded to the central metal ion. These are usually neutral molecules or ions, such as NH 3 or Cl -, respectively.
  • Coordination number: The coordination number is the number of ligand donor atoms bonded to the central atom. In Werner's time, it was usually found to be 4 or 6.
  • Geometry of coordination compounds: Werner suggested that coordination compounds could form spatial geometries. He identified octahedral, tetrahedral, and square planar arrangements.

Werner's experiments

Let us discuss a specific series of experiments that helped Werner formulate his theory. Consider the compound CoCl 3 .6NH 3. Werner proposed three different forms for this chemical compound: [Co(NH 3) 6]Cl 3, [CoCl(NH 3) 5]Cl 2, and [CoCl 2(NH 3) 4]Cl. This shows that the molecule can exhibit different arrangements with different numbers of coordinated and anionic chlorine atoms.

When these compounds were dissolved in water, different numbers of ions were produced, which Werner measured through conductivity experiments. This difference in the number of ions supports the different proposed structures.

Compound 1 Compound 2

Modern concepts of coordination chemistry

Modern coordination chemistry has evolved considerably since Werner's time due to the development of quantum mechanics and advanced analytical techniques. Here are some modern concepts that build on Werner's foundation:

Crystal field theory (CFT)

Crystal field theory provides a simple model for understanding how metal ions interact with ligands. According to CFT, the electrostatic interaction between ligands and metal ions causes a splitting in the d-orbital energy. This splitting produces:

  • t 2g orbitals: lower energy set
  • e g orbitals: higher energy set

The energy difference between these orbitals affects the properties of the compound, such as its colour and magnetic behaviour.

Ligand field theory (LFT)

Ligand field theory combines aspects of CFT and molecular orbital theory (MOT) to provide a more comprehensive understanding of coordination compounds. LFT provides insight into both bonding and electronic structure, looking at how different ligands can affect the hybridization and geometry of a compound.

Valence bond theory (VBT)

Valence bond theory includes the concept of hybridization, where atomic orbitals of metal ions mix to form hybrid orbitals. These hybrid orbitals can bond with ligand orbitals to form coordination complexes. For example, nickel undergoes sp 3 hybridization in the complex [Ni(CN) 4] 2-.

Metal Ligand 1 Ligand 2

Example: coordination compounds in biological systems

Coordination compounds are not limited to industrial applications only. In biological systems, they play important roles. For example:

  • Hemoglobin: The iron-centered coordination complex in hemoglobin helps transport oxygen in the blood.
  • Chlorophyll: At the center of the chlorophyll molecule is a magnesium ion, coordinated with nitrogen atoms.

Conclusion

Werner's theory laid a solid foundation, allowing future researchers and chemists to explore coordination compounds and find their applications. Modern theories such as crystal field theory and ligand field theory have expanded our understanding and applications. Thus, coordination chemistry remains an integral field that connects various chemical concepts and offers diverse practical applications.


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