definition

[George_Zhu]

what is the definition of ligand and bidentate ligand ?

[Brian Kwak 1D]

Ligands are ions or neutral molecules that bond to a central metal atom or ion. Ligands act as Lewis bases (electron pair donors), and the central atom acts as a Lewis acid (electron pair acceptor). Ligands have at least one donor atom with an electron pair used to form covalent bonds with the central atom.

Bidentate ligands have two donor atoms which allow them to bind to a central metal atom or ion at two points. Common examples of bidentate ligands are ethylenediamine (en), and the oxalate ion (ox).

[Maddie Turk Disc 2J]

ligands are just the things attatched to the central atom right?

[Joanne Yuh 3I]

ligands are just the things attatched to the central atom right?

Yes, generally ligands are the Lewis bases that are attached to the central atom. They are e-pair donors of the molecule/ion.

[205769933]

Ligands are ions or neutral molecules that bond to a central metal atom or ion. Ligands act as Lewis bases (electron pair donors), and the central atom acts as a Lewis acid (electron pair acceptor). Ligands have at least one donor atom with an electron pair used to form covalent bonds with the central atom.

Bidentate ligands have two donor atoms which allow them to bind to a central metal atom or ion at two points. Common examples of bidentate ligands are ethylenediamine (en), and the oxalate ion (ox).

Thank you for this definition! Helped so much.