Donor Atom
| Also Known As | Coordinating atom, binding atom (ligand), Lewis base site, chelating atom |
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What is Donor Atom?
In coordination chemistry, the atom in a ligand that directly bonds to the central metal atom or ion by donating a lone pair of electrons. Common donor atoms include nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, and phosphorus. Polydentate ligands have multiple donor atoms.
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
In coordination chemistry, the atom in a ligand that directly bonds to the central metal atom or ion by donating a lone pair of electrons. Common donor atoms include nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, and phosphorus. Polydentate ligands have multiple donor atoms.
Selection of appropriate donor atoms allows tuning of complex stability, reactivity, and selectivity in catalysis, analytical chemistry (chelating agents for specific metal ions), and medicine (EDTA's N and O donors chelate Ca²⁺ and heavy metals in chelation therapy).
Ligands with S donor atoms (thiolates, dithiocarbamates) often show high affinity for heavy metal cations (Hg²⁺, Pb²⁺, Cd²⁺) — both a detoxification principle (chelation therapy) and a source of hazard (displacement of essential metal ions from enzymes).