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Ch.21 - Transition Elements and Coordination Chemistry
Chapter 21, Problem 21.78a

What is the systematic name for each of the following ions?
(a) [MnCl4]2-
(b) [Ni(NH3)6]2+

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<insert step 1> Identify the central metal ion in each complex. For (a), the central metal is manganese (Mn), and for (b), it is nickel (Ni).
<insert step 2> Determine the oxidation state of the central metal ion. For (a) [MnCl_4]^{2-}, consider the charge of the chloride ions (Cl^-) and the overall charge of the complex to find the oxidation state of Mn. For (b) [Ni(NH_3)_6]^{2+}, consider the charge of the ammonia ligands (neutral) and the overall charge of the complex to find the oxidation state of Ni.
<insert step 3> Name the ligands in each complex. For (a), the ligand is chloride, and for (b), the ligand is ammonia. Use the appropriate prefixes to indicate the number of each type of ligand: 'tetra-' for four chlorides and 'hexa-' for six ammonias.
<insert step 4> Combine the ligand names with the metal name and its oxidation state. For (a), use the prefix for the ligands followed by the metal name and its oxidation state in Roman numerals. For (b), do the same.
<insert step 5> Ensure the systematic name follows the IUPAC naming conventions for coordination compounds, which typically list the ligands alphabetically followed by the metal and its oxidation state.>

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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 or ion bonded to surrounding molecules or ions called ligands. The nature of these ligands, whether they are neutral or charged, and their arrangement around the metal center significantly influence the properties and naming of the compound.
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Oxidation States

The oxidation state of an element in a compound indicates the degree of oxidation of that element. It is crucial for determining the systematic name of coordination compounds, as it helps identify the charge of the metal ion, which is essential for proper nomenclature.
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IUPAC Nomenclature

The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) provides systematic rules for naming chemical compounds. For coordination compounds, the name includes the ligands listed alphabetically, followed by the metal's name and its oxidation state in Roman numerals, ensuring clarity and consistency in chemical communication.
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Rules for Naming Alkanes