Metal complex formation
• Metal complexes are formed between a
metal
cation and ligands - which are groups
which bond to the metal. The complex does not dissociate in solution, it
exists as
a discrete
molecular unit.
• There are several known metal complexes of the group 1A
and 2A metals a few examples of which will be mentioned.
Na+ + acac- ® (acac)Na(OH2)2 (in water)
( acac- = acetylacetonate = CH3COCHCOCH3- )