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What is a complex ion? . . .
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An introduction to complex ions with an explanation of what ligands are and how they bond to the central metal ion.
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Naming complex ions . . .
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An introduction to the naming of common complex ions.
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Shapes of complex ions . . .
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An introduction to the shapes of complex ions (including some simple stereoisomerism).
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The origin of colour in complex ions . . .
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A simple explanation of why complex ions formed by transition metals tend to be coloured, and a look at the factors which cause the colours to change during reactions.
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Ligand exchange reactions (introduction) . . .
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Looks at the chemistry of several simple ligand exchange reactions required for UK A' level courses.
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Ligand exchange reactions (stability constants) . . .
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Explains what is meant by stability constants for complex ions. This page assumes that you are familiar with simple ligand exchange reactions.
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The acidity of the hexaaqua ions . . .
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Explains why ions of the type M(H2O)6n+ are acidic, and how and why the acidity varies with the charge on the ion.
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The reactions of the hexaaqua ions with hydroxide ions . . .
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Looks in detail at what happens when you add sodium hydroxide solution to solutions of the hexaaqua ions.
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The reactions of the hexaaqua ions with ammonia . . .
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Looks in detail at what happens when you add ammonia solution to solutions of the hexaaqua ions.
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The reactions of the hexaaqua ions with carbonate ions . . .
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Looks in detail at what happens when you add sodium carbonate solution to solutions of the hexaaqua ions.