What is linkage isomers?

Linkage isomers are a type of structural isomerism that occurs in coordination compounds. In these isomers, ligands are attached to the central metal ion through different atoms. This results in different coordination numbers and geometries for the same compound.

Linkage isomers are commonly formed with ligands that have the ability to bind through different atoms, such as cyanide (CN-) or nitrite (NO2-). For example, in the case of the complex [M(CN)5(NO)], the nitric oxide ligand can bind through either the nitrogen or oxygen atom, leading to the formation of two linkage isomers.

Linkage isomers are important in coordination chemistry as they can have different physical and chemical properties, such as stability, reactivity, and color. These differences can be exploited in various applications, including catalysis and materials science.

Overall, linkage isomerism results from the flexibility of ligands to bind through different atoms, leading to the formation of different coordination isomers with distinct properties.