Write the formula for each of the following compounds.
(a) Diamminesilver(I) nitrate
(b) Potassium diaquadioxalatocobaltate(III)

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Identify the components of each compound and their charges.

For (a) Diamminesilver(I) nitrate: Recognize that 'Diamminesilver(I)' indicates a complex ion with silver (Ag) coordinated to two ammonia (NH₃) ligands, and 'nitrate' is the NO₃⁻ ion.

Write the formula for the complex ion in (a): [Ag(NH₃)₂]⁺, and combine it with the nitrate ion to form the compound: [Ag(NH₃)₂]NO₃.

For (b) Potassium diaquadioxalatocobaltate(III): 'Diaquadioxalatocobaltate(III)' indicates a complex ion with cobalt (Co) in the +3 oxidation state, coordinated to two water (H₂O) molecules and two oxalate (C₂O₄²⁻) ions.

Write the formula for the complex ion in (b): [Co(H₂O)₂(C₂O₄)₂]⁻, and combine it with potassium (K⁺) to form the compound: K₃[Co(H₂O)₂(C₂O₄)₂].

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Coordination Compounds

Coordination compounds consist of a central metal atom bonded to surrounding molecules or ions called ligands. The ligands can be neutral molecules or anions, and they donate electron pairs to the metal, forming coordinate covalent bonds. Understanding the nature of these ligands and their arrangement around the metal is crucial for writing the correct chemical formulas.

Nomenclature of Coordination Complexes

The nomenclature of coordination complexes follows specific rules set by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). The name of the complex typically starts with the ligands in alphabetical order, followed by the metal's name and its oxidation state in Roman numerals. This systematic approach is essential for accurately representing the composition of coordination compounds.

Oxidation States

The oxidation state of an element in a compound indicates the degree of oxidation of that element, reflecting the number of electrons lost or gained. In coordination compounds, determining the oxidation state of the central metal is vital for writing the correct formula, as it influences the overall charge of the complex and the balance with counterions.

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