Complex Ion Definition
An introduction to complex ions definition with an explanation of what ligands are and how they bond to the central metal ion.
What is a complex metal ion?
A complex ion has a metal ion at its centre with a number of other molecules or ions surrounding it. These can be considered to be attached to the central ion by co-ordinate bonds. (In some cases, the bonding is actually more complicated than that.)
Complex Ion Definition: Complex ions are ions with a central metal ion bonded to one or more molecules or ions.
Examples of Complex Ion formation:
The copper ammine ion complex
Cu2+ + 6NH3 -------> [ Cu(NH3)6]2+ is a complex ion.