NH3 versus NH4+

Jan Hill

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

Why does NH3 readily form complex ions with the transition elements but NH4+ does not?

2. Relevant equations



3. The attempt at a solution
Is it because the transition elements are much more receptive to reacting with a base than with an acid because in fact the transition elements would much prefer to give up an H+ rather than accept one.

chemisttree

Draw the lewis structures for both of these (easy!) and you will see why. It is a little more complex than just acid/base.

Hint: Transition metals usually have empty orbitals of fairly low energy.