How many ions per molecule are produced from the complex [Co(NH\(_3\))\(_6\)]Cl\(_3\) in solution?
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To find the number of ions produced by a coordination compound, simply count the complex ion (the part in square brackets) as one ion and then add the number of counter ions outside the brackets.
Step 1: Understanding the Dissociation of Coordination Compounds.
When a coordination compound is dissolved in a solvent like water, it dissociates into its constituent ions. The coordination sphere (the part in the square brackets) remains as a single, intact complex ion, while the counter ions outside the brackets dissociate. Step 2: Analyzing the given complex.
The complex is [Co(NH\(_3\))\(_6\)]Cl\(_3\).
The coordination sphere is [Co(NH\(_3\))\(_6\)]\(^{3+}\). This is one complex cation.
The counter ions are the three chloride ions, Cl\(^-\).
Step 3: Writing the dissociation equation.
When one formula unit of the complex dissolves in water, it dissociates as follows:
\[ [\text{Co(NH}_3)_6]\text{Cl}_3 \text{(s)} \xrightarrow{\text{Water}} [\text{Co(NH}_3)_6]^{3+} \text{(aq)} + 3\text{Cl}^- \text{(aq)} \]
Step 4: Counting the total number of ions produced.
From the dissociation equation, we can see that one formula unit produces:
1 complex cation: [Co(NH\(_3\))\(_6\)]\(^{3+}\)
3 simple anions: Cl\(^-\)
Total number of ions = 1 + 3 = 4 ions. Step 5: Final Answer.
A total of 4 ions are produced per molecule of the complex in solution.
