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

78182 Views

See similar Chemistry IB tutors

Related Chemistry IB answers

All answers ▸

How can we determine the molecular and electron geometry of H2O?


Why is zinc not considered a transition metal?


Please use the VSEPR theory to predict the shape of NH3 and the approximate bond angles


Which compound is a member of the same homologous series as 1-chloropropane? A. 1-chloropropene B. 1-chlorobutane C. 1-bromopropane D. 1,1-dichloropropane


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning