CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Theoretical Framework
This study is grounded in coordination chemistry theories which explain the interaction
of metal ions with ligands to form coordination complexes. Werner’s Coordination
Theory laid the foundation by distinguishing between the primary valence (oxidation
state) and secondary valence (coordination number) of metal ions. Ligand Field Theory
(LFT) and Molecular Orbital Theory (MOT) further elucidate metal-ligand bonding,
electronic structures, and geometry of complexes. For Zn(II), a d10 transition metal ion,
these theories help explain why it typically forms tetrahedral or octahedral complexes
depending on ligand characteristics.
2.2 Theoretical Review
Zinc(II) Ion: Zn(II) has an [Ar]3d10 configuration, making it a diamagnetic ion with no
crystal field stabilization energy. Its chemistry is dominated by electrostatic and covalent
interactions with ligands. Zn(II) complexes often display coordination numbers of four or
six. The tetrahedral geometry is common in Zn(II)-oxygen and Zn(II)-nitrogen systems.
8-Hydroxyquinoline (8HQ): 8HQ is a heterocyclic ligand with a hydroxyl group at
position 8, enabling N,O-chelation. Its complexes exhibit high stability due to the chelate
effect and conjugated π-system, making them valuable in luminescent materials and
metal sensing applications.
Benzoic Acid: Benzoic acid and its conjugate base (benzoate) coordinate metals through
carboxylate oxygen atoms. Zn(II)-benzoate complexes have been reported with
monodentate and bridging modes, with applications in supramolecular assembly and
metal-organic frameworks (MOFs).
Mixed-Ligand Complexes: Combining ligands of different donor sets (N,O from 8HQ
and O,O from benzoate) often enhances stability and allows tuning of geometry and
properties, including solubility and photophysics.
2.3 Empirical Review
Singh et al. (2020) synthesized Zn(II)-8HQ complexes exhibiting fluorescence due to
ligand-centered transitions. Akinyele and Oyetunji (2019) characterized Zn(II)-benzoate
complexes via IR spectroscopy, confirming monodentate carboxylate binding. Patel et al.
(2018) reported mixed-ligand Zn(II) complexes with improved thermal stability
compared to single-ligand systems. However, no study directly focuses on Zn(II)
complexes involving both 8HQ and benzoic acid ligands.
2.4 Appraisal of Literature
While literature on Zn(II) coordination chemistry and its individual ligand complexes is
extensive, the specific mixed-ligand system involving 8-hydroxyquinoline and benzoic
acid remains unexplored. This study aims to fill this gap by synthesizing and
characterizing the Zn(II)-8HQ-benzoic acid complex, contributing new insights into
mixed-ligand coordination behavior.
