Cu2+ (aq) reacts with ammonia to form the complex ion [Cu(NH)3)4]2+. Explain this reaction in terms of acid-base theory, and outline the bonding in the complex formed between Cu2+ and NH3

Ammonia acts as the Lewis base in this reaction by donating its lone pair of electrons, whilst Cu2+ (which is an electron deficient, electrophile) accepts the lone pair of electrons from the ammonia, making it a Lewis acid. The bond between Cu2+ and NH3 is a coordinate bond (also known as a dative bond), whereby the electrons in the bond are both donated by one species (in this case NH3). Thus NH3 is a ligand. Cu2+ is the electrophile (electron deficient) and NH3 is the nucleophile (electron rich). 

SZ
Answered by Sophie Z. Chemistry tutor

77445 Views

See similar Chemistry IB tutors

Related Chemistry IB answers

All answers ▸

Why do transition d-metal complexes show color?


How does the pKa level correlate with acid strength?


Explain why successive ionization energies of an element increase and how they account for the existence of three main energy levels in the sodium atom


What is an acid-base titration?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences