H2O and OH2 Same Species in Complex Entity?

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SUMMARY

H2O and OH2 are indeed the same chemical species when used as ligands in complex entities, as both refer to water molecules. The distinction arises primarily from the context in which they are used; H2O emphasizes the molecular identity of water, while OH2 highlights the oxygen atom as the donor in coordination chemistry. This nomenclature choice does not affect the chemical behavior of the ligand but serves to clarify the bonding mechanism involved.

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Homework Statement


Are H_{2}O and OH_2 same species when used as ligand in complex entity?
Can these be used interchangeably?


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The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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How are H20 and OH2 different?
 
I don't think they are different but my chemistry textbook uses OH2 in some complex entities. So I wanted to know if it was so because oxygen is the donor atom in the ligand.
But if it is so then why use H2O, when denoting water as a ligand in some cases?
 
Last edited:
There is no reason except to emphasize that the bonding occurs through the oxygen.
 
Thanks a lot for clearing my doubt.
 

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