Question

Which of the following ligands is an ambidentate ligand?

• A. CO
• B. SCN\(^-\)
• C. NH\(_3\)
• D. H\(_2\)O

Hint:

Ambidentate ligands can coordinate to the central metal ion via more than one donor atom. SCN\(^-\) is a classic example where the ligand can bind via either the sulfur or nitrogen atom.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

An ambidentate ligand is one that has two or more donor atoms capable of forming coordinate bonds with the central metal ion, but it can coordinate through either one of them. In this case, SCN\(^-\) (thiocyanate) is an ambidentate ligand because it can bind through either the sulfur atom or the nitrogen atom. Other options, such as CO, NH\(_3\), and H\(_2\)O, are monodentate ligands, which can only form a single coordinate bond with the metal ion.