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Ch.21 - Transition Elements and Coordination Chemistry
Chapter 21, Problem 81a

What is the systematic name for each of the following coordination compounds? 
(a) [Cu(NH3)4]SO4
(b) Cr(CO)6

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1
Identify the central metal atom and its oxidation state in each coordination compound.
For compound (a) [Cu(NH_3)_4]SO_4, identify the ligands and their names. Ammonia (NH_3) is a neutral ligand called 'ammine'.
Determine the oxidation state of copper in [Cu(NH_3)_4]SO_4. Since sulfate (SO_4) is -2 and ammonia is neutral, copper must be +2 to balance the charge.
Name the coordination compound (a) by listing the ligands in alphabetical order followed by the metal and its oxidation state in Roman numerals. The name is 'Tetraamminecopper(II) sulfate'.
For compound (b) Cr(CO)_6, identify the ligands. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a neutral ligand called 'carbonyl'. The oxidation state of chromium is zero because CO is neutral.
Name the coordination compound (b) by listing the ligands followed by the metal. The name is 'Hexacarbonylchromium(0)'.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Coordination Compounds

Coordination compounds consist of a central metal atom or ion bonded to surrounding molecules or ions called ligands. The nature of these bonds and the arrangement of ligands around the metal center are crucial for determining the compound's properties and nomenclature. Understanding the structure and bonding in these compounds is essential for naming them systematically.
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Nomenclature of Coordination Complexes

The nomenclature of coordination complexes follows specific rules set by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). This includes naming the ligands first, followed by the metal, and indicating the oxidation state of the metal in Roman numerals. The order and naming conventions are vital for accurately identifying and communicating the identity of coordination compounds.
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Ligands and Their Types

Ligands are ions or molecules that can donate a pair of electrons to the central metal atom in a coordination compound. They can be classified as monodentate (binding through one atom), bidentate (binding through two atoms), or polydentate (binding through multiple atoms). Recognizing the type and number of ligands is essential for determining the overall charge and name of the coordination complex.
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