The Formation of Complexes with Inorganic Ions

Colors of Complexes Containing Metal Ions

The color of a complex is due to the absorption of the complimentary color of light. That is, a blue complex is due to the absorption of red wave lengths. This is schematically illustrated by the following "color wheel."

Complexes between organic ligands and metal ions have the following properties.

Depending on the separation of the energy levels and their occupation the complex exhibits color and even magnetic behavior.

For a more detailed discussion click here.