Question

What is the co-ordination number of metal in [Fe(C$_2$O$_4$)$_3$]$^{3-}$?

• A. Two
• B. Three
• C. Six
• D. Four

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The coordination number of Fe in [Fe(C$_2$O$_4$)$_3$]$^{3-}$ is six, as each oxalate ion is bidentate.

Answer 2

The coordination number of iron (Fe) in the complex ion [Fe(C₂O₄)₃] ^3- is six. This is because each oxalate ion (C₂O₄^2-) is bidentate, meaning it can form two bonds with the central metal ion, iron (Fe). In this case, there are three oxalate ions, each attaching to the iron through two donor atoms, resulting in a total of six bonds, which gives the iron a coordination number of six.

The bidentate nature of the oxalate ion allows for the formation of a stable chelate, where the metal ion is surrounded by the donor atoms from the ligand, increasing the stability of the complex.