In a coordination compound, what does the term 'coordination number' refer to?

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Question: In a coordination compound, what does the term \'coordination number\' refer to?

Options:

Correct Answer: The number of ligands attached to the metal ion

Solution:

The coordination number refers to the number of ligands that are directly bonded to the central metal ion in a coordination complex.

In a coordination compound, what does the term 'coordination number' refer to?

In a coordination compound, what does the term 'coordination number' refer to?

Step 1: Understand what a coordination compound is. It is a complex made of a central metal ion and surrounding molecules or ions called ligands.
Step 2: Identify the central metal ion in the coordination compound. This is the main atom that is surrounded by ligands.
Step 3: Count the number of ligands that are directly attached to the central metal ion. These ligands can be molecules or ions.
Step 4: The total number of these ligands is called the coordination number.

Coordination Number – The number of ligands directly bonded to the central metal ion in a coordination complex.