Question

Which of the following is an ambidentate ligand? a) \( \text{C}_2 \text{O}_4^{2-} \) b) \( \text{CN}^- \) c) \( \text{NH}_3 \)

• A. \( \text{C}_2 \text{O}_4^{2-} \)
• B. \( \text{CN}^- \)
• C. \( \text{NH}_3 \)
• D. None of the above

Hint:

Ambidentate ligands can bind to a metal atom through more than one donor site. The oxalate ion is an example of such a ligand.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

An **ambidentate ligand** is a ligand that can bind to a metal atom at two different donor sites. The \( \text{C}_2 \text{O}_4^{2-} \) ion (oxalate ion) is an ambidentate ligand because it can coordinate to a metal ion through either one of its oxygen atoms, thus having two potential coordination sites. - The \( \text{CN}^- \) ion (cyanide) is a monodentate ligand, coordinating through its carbon atom. - The \( \text{NH}_3 \) molecule (ammonia) is also a monodentate ligand, coordinating through its nitrogen atom. Therefore, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{(A) \, \text{C}_2 \text{O}_4^{2-}} \]