Electron Counting - Counting Rules

Counting Rules

Two styles of electron counting are popular and both give the same result. The neutral counting approach assumes the molecule or fragment being studied consists of purely covalent bonds. It was popularized by M.L.H. Green along with the L and X ligand notation. It is usually considered easier especially for low-valent transition metals.

The "ionic counting" approach assumes purely ionic bonds between atoms. It rewards the user with a knowledge of oxidation states, which can be valuable. One can check one's calculation by employing both approaches, though it is important to be aware that most chemical species exist between the purely covalent and ionic extremes.

Read more about this topic:  Electron Counting

Famous quotes containing the words counting and/or rules:

    Love is sinister,
    is mean to us in separation;
    makes our thin bodies thinner.
    This fellow Death
    lacks mercy
    and is good at counting our days.
    And Master,
    you, too, are subject
    to the plague of jealousy
    so think:
    how could womenfolk,
    soft as sprouts,
    live like this?
    Amaru (c. seventh century A.D.)

    Logic teaches rules for presentation, not thinking.
    Mason Cooley (b. 1927)