Coordination number meaning

The coordination number refers to the number of nearest neighbors surrounding an atom in a crystal lattice.


Coordination number definitions

Word backwards noitanidrooc rebmun
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "coordination number" is a noun.
Syllabic division co-or-di-na-tion num-ber
Plural The plural of coordination number is coordination numbers.
Total letters 18
Vogais (5) o,i,a,u,e
Consonants (7) c,r,d,n,t,m,b

Coordination Number

In chemistry, the coordination number refers to the number of atoms, ions, or molecules that surround a central atom in a complex or coordination compound. This number is crucial as it helps to determine the geometry and stability of the compound.

Importance of Coordination Number

The coordination number is essential in understanding the bonding and structure of a compound. It provides information about how many atoms or molecules are directly bonded to the central atom, influencing its properties and reactivity.

Factors Affecting Coordination Number

Several factors can affect the coordination number of a compound, such as the size of the central atom, the size of the ligands, and the charge on the central atom. These factors determine how many bonds can be formed around the central atom.

Types of Coordination Numbers

Common coordination numbers include 2, 4, 6, and 8. A coordination number of 2 is known as linear geometry, 4 is tetrahedral, 6 is octahedral, and 8 is square planar. Each coordination number has specific geometric arrangements of atoms around the central atom.

Applications of Coordination Number

Coordination numbers are used in various fields such as inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, and materials science. Understanding coordination numbers is crucial in designing new compounds with desired properties and studying complex biological systems.

Overall, coordination numbers play a significant role in determining the structure, stability, and properties of chemical compounds. By analyzing the coordination number, chemists can predict how a compound will behave in various chemical reactions and environments.


Coordination number Examples

  1. The coordination number of the central atom in a crystal structure determines its geometry.
  2. A higher coordination number often leads to greater stability in chemical compounds.
  3. The coordination number of a metal ion can influence its reactivity in a complex reaction.
  4. Understanding the coordination number of a molecule helps predict its behavior in a reaction.
  5. The coordination number of a metal complex can affect its color and magnetic properties.
  6. Chemists use the concept of coordination number to design catalysts for specific reactions.
  7. The coordination number of an ion in a crystal lattice affects its conductivity.
  8. Different coordination numbers give rise to different shapes of coordination complexes.
  9. In a coordination compound, the coordination number is the total number of bonds formed with the central atom.
  10. The coordination number of a transition metal ion determines its ability to form complexes with ligands.


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  • Updated 20/06/2024 - 10:21:18