Textbook Problem 9C7

[IsabelMurillo3K]

Hey guys!
I was wondering if anyone could explain how we can determine which structures can form chelating complexes? I have come across this term a couple of times in different problems regarding ligands, however, I am confused as to what this term means, or how I can apply it in problems. Thanks in advance!

[Xinyu Li 1C]

Chelating complexes are complexes containing a ligand that forms a ring of atoms that includes the central metal atom. In order to form a chelate, you need a ligand with the ideal geometry, which is (atom w/ lone pair) + (spacer) + (spacer) + (atom w/ lone pair) and the bonds need to be able to rotate (single bonds).


N is the atom providing the lone pair and C is spacer ^