The image on the right shows water molecules surrounding a copper(Cu2+) ion. Which one comment below is true?

A) Elements from group 1 in the periodic table can also attract water molecules and form ions similar to the one shown on the right. B) The water molecules form hydrogen bonding with the copper ion. C) The bonding between the copper ion and the water molecule is known as ion-dipole bonding. D) The water molecules form ion-ion bonding with the copper ion. E) There is no force acting between the copper ion and the water molecules.

The Solution...

The image shows a complex ion formed by polar water molecules and transition metal ions. Transition metals form complex ions because they have a big positive charge and small ions. This increases the strength of the ion-dipole attraction between the ion and the molecules. Metals of group 1 and 2 can not form complex ions because of their, realtively, large atomic size and small charge. Click on the solutions link for more information.
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(c) Dynamic Science.