Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Organometallic Chemistry

Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Organometallic Chemistry 1. Ligand vs. Complex One of the first things we encounter in organometallic chemistry is the terms 'ligand' and 'complex.' While a ligand is a molecule or ion that donates electrons to a metal, a complex is the resulting structure formed by the metal and the ligand. So, think of ligands as the 'donors' and complexes as the 'receivers.' 2. Homogeneous vs. Heterogeneous Catalysis Catalysis is a crucial aspect of organometallic chemistry. Homogeneous catalysis involves a catalyst and reactants in the same phase, usually a solution. On the other hand, heterogeneous catalysis involves a catalyst and reactants in different phases. The catalyst may be a solid while the reactants are in a gas or liquid phase. So, it's the 'same phase' vs. 'different phase' distinction here. 3. Activation vs. Deactivation Activation and deactivation refer to the state of a catalyst. Activation occurs when a catalyst becomes active, initiating a reaction. Deactivation, as the name suggests, is the opposite. It happens when a catalyst loses its activity, often due to poisoning or fouling.