Question

Write the IUPAC name of the complex:
\(\text{[Co(H}_2\text{O})(\text{CN})(\text{en}_2)^{2+}]\)

Hint:

In naming coordination compounds, list the ligands alphabetically and indicate the oxidation state of the central metal ion in Roman numerals.

Answer 1

IUPAC Name of the Complex:

The IUPAC name of the complex [Co(H₂O)(CN)(en)]²⁺ is diaquacyanido-bis(ethylenediamine)cobalt(III) ion.

Explanation:

• "Aqua" represents the two water molecules (H₂O) as ligands.
• "Cyano" refers to the cyanide (CN) ligand.
• "Ethylenediamine" refers to the bidentate ligand (en), which binds through two coordination sites.
• Cobalt is in the +3 oxidation state, which is indicated by the roman numeral (III) after "cobalt."