Question

A group (the Lewis bases) attached to the central metal ion in a complex - can be either ions or molecules - each ligand in a complex typically has at least one lone pair with which it bonds to the central atom or ion by forming a coordinate covalent bond

Answer 1

A complex ion consists of a central metal ion surrounded by ligands which donate lone pairs of electrons to form coordinate covalent bonds. Ligands can be simple molecules like water and ammonia or ions like chloride. This interaction is a critical part of coordination chemistry.

Step-by-step explanation:

A complex ion is formed when a central metal ion, usually a transition metal cation, is surrounded by molecules or ions known as ligands. These ligands must have one or more lone pairs of electrons and act as Lewis bases, donating these electron pairs to the central metal ion to form coordinate covalent bonds.

This type of interaction is a key aspect of coordination chemistry. Simple ligands include entities like water (H2O), ammonia (NH3), and chloride ions (Cl-). In some cases, ligands can form a chelate with the central metal when they are polydentate, meaning they can attach at multiple points.