How Does Ligand Design Affect Coordination Environment?
Ligands play a pivotal role in defining the coordination environment. They can be tailored to:
Modulate Reactivity: Electron-donating or withdrawing groups on ligands can tune the oxidation state and electronic density of the metal center. Control Geometry: Different ligands can enforce specific geometrical arrangements (e.g., tetrahedral, square planar) around the metal center. Introduce Functional Groups: Functional groups on ligands can provide additional interactions with substrates.