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richi
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Can anybody please tell me why NH3 readily forms complex ions with transitional elements but NH4+ doesn't?
NH3, or ammonia, is a strong Lewis base and can donate its lone pair of electrons to transition metal ions, which act as Lewis acids. This results in the formation of coordinate covalent bonds and the formation of complex ions.
Transition elements, also known as transition metals, have partially filled d orbitals which allow them to form complex ions with ligands such as NH3. Their ability to vary in oxidation states and form multiple bonds also contributes to the stability of these complex ions.
The formation of complex ions with transition elements can enhance the properties of NH3. For example, NH3 complex ions are often more stable and less volatile than free ammonia molecules, making them useful in various industrial processes and applications.
Yes, NH3 can also form complex ions with other elements such as main group metals, but the stability and strength of these complex ions may vary. Transition elements are favored for the formation of complex ions due to their unique electronic and bonding properties.
NH3 complex ions with transition elements have various applications in industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and catalysis. They are also used in laboratory experiments and techniques such as chromatography and spectroscopy.