Coordination isomers

Definition

Coordination isomers are a type of structural isomerism in coordination compounds where the composition of the complex ions varies but the overall formula remains the same. These arise when ligands and counterions exchange places between coordination spheres.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coordination isomers occur specifically in coordination compounds involving transition metals.
2. They involve an exchange of ligands between the inner coordination sphere and outer counterions.
3. These isomers can exhibit different chemical and physical properties despite having identical overall formulas.
4. Coordination isomerism can affect solubility, color, reactivity, and magnetic properties of a compound.
5. Identifying coordination isomers often requires analytical techniques such as NMR spectroscopy or X-ray crystallography.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes coordination isomers from other types of structural isomers?
• How do coordination isomers affect the properties of a compound?
• Which analytical methods can be used to identify coordination isomers?

Related terms

Ligand: An ion or molecule that binds to a central metal atom to form a coordination complex.

Coordination Sphere: The central metal ion and its surrounding ligands in a complex ion.

Structural Isomerism: A form of isomerism where molecules with the same molecular formula have different bonding patterns and atomic organization.