What is the co-ordination number of metal in $[Fe(C_2O_4)_3]^{3-}$?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Six
The ligand oxalate (C₂O₄²⁻) is a bidentate ligand, meaning it donates two donor atoms (two oxygen atoms) to the metal ion.
In the complex [Fe(C₂O₄)₃]³⁻:
-
Number of oxalate ligands = 3
-
Each oxalate ligand forms 2 coordinate bonds with Fe.
Total coordinate bonds with Fe
= 3 × 2
= 6
Therefore, the coordination number of iron is 6.