Question

The co-ordination mumber of aluminiun in meta aluminate and aluminates, respectively, is (1) 4,4 (2) 4,6 (3) 6,4 (4) 6,6

Short answer

Option (2) 4,6

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Coordination Number

The coordination number of an atom in a molecule or crystal is the number of atoms it is directly bonded to.

Examine Meta Aluminate

In meta aluminate, aluminum typically has a coordination number of 4, meaning it is bonded to four oxygen atoms.

Examine Aluminates

In aluminates, aluminum typically has a coordination number of 6, meaning it is bonded to six oxygen atoms.

Compare with Given Options

By analyzing the coordination numbers, we can see that option (2) 4,6 correctly describes aluminum's coordination numbers in meta aluminate and aluminates, respectively.

Key concepts

meta aluminate

Meta aluminate is an important compound in coordination chemistry. In this type of compound, an aluminum atom is bonded directly to four oxygen atoms.
This specific arrangement gives aluminum a coordination number of 4.
The term 'meta' indicates a particular structure where oxygen atoms surround and connect to the central aluminum atom.
Understanding this coordination helps us in predicting the properties and behavior of meta aluminates in different chemical reactions.
When learning about meta aluminate, it's essential to recognize how these bonds contribute to its stability and reactivity.

aluminates

Aluminates are another class of compounds involving aluminum.
In these compounds, aluminum typically has a coordination number of 6, meaning it is bonded to six oxygen atoms.
This higher coordination number results from the arrangement of these atoms around the aluminum ion, forming a more complex structure compared to meta aluminates.
Aluminates are found in various chemical and industrial processes.
They are used in making ceramics, cement, and other materials.
By understanding the coordination number, we learn about the bonding, which aids in predicting the compound's physical and chemical properties.

coordination chemistry

Coordination chemistry focuses on the structure and properties of complex compounds formed by metals bonded to ligands.
A key concept in this field is the coordination number, which tells us how many atoms or molecules directly bond to a central atom.
For aluminum, commonly found coordination numbers are 4 and 6.
By knowing the coordination number, we can determine how a central atom interacts with its surrounding atoms.
This helps us predict the geometry, stability, and reactivity of the compound.
When studying coordination chemistry, it is crucial to understand these fundamental concepts to grasp how different compounds are formed and behave in various chemical reactions.