coordination geometry

Coordination geometry in chemistry refers to the spatial arrangement of atoms, ions, or molecules (ligands) around a central atom in a coordination compound. This arrangement is determined by the coordination number, which is the count of nearest neighbors to the central atom.12

Common geometries include:
* Tetrahedral: Four ligands arranged at the corners of a tetrahedron.3
* Square planar: Four ligands arranged at the corners of a square.2
* Octahedral: Six ligands arranged around a central atom, with four in a plane and one above and one below.2

The type of bonds formed (ionic or covalent) and the relative sizes and electronic configurations of the central atom and ligands influence the coordination number and geometry. Ligand field theory helps explain the electronic structure and properties of these compounds. Coordination compounds can also exhibit isomerism, where different spatial arrangements of ligands lead to distinct compounds with the same chemical formula.12456