Question

A group of atoms can function as a ligand only when:

Options

• It is a compound

• It is capable of acting as donor of electron pair

• It is a positively charged ion

• It is a small molecule

Answer 1

It is capable of acting as donor of electron pair

Explanation:

Ligands are the ions/molecules bound to the central metal atom/ion in a coordination entity. These may be simple ions like Cl⁻, small molecules like NH₃, large molecules like ethane-1, 2-diamine, or even macromolecules like proteins. A ligand must be able to donate a pair of electrons to the central metal atom/ion and thus they act as Lewis bases.