Question

Explain why transition metals form complex compounds.

Answer 1

1. Transition metals accept lone pairs from ligands to form coordinate (dative) bonds.
2. Their small ionic size and high positive charge attract ligands strongly.
3. They have vacant d‑orbitals of suitable energy to accommodate donated electron pairs.
4. Variable oxidation states allow different bonding patterns and geometries.
5. d‑orbital splitting (crystal field) stabilizes complexes and gives characteristic colors.