Color of Complexes

The color of a chemical complex depends on how its molecules absorb and emit specific wavelengths of light. When a complex interacts with light, certain colors are absorbed, and others are reflected or transmitted, giving the complex its distinct hue. This absorption is influenced by the types of metal ions and the ligands (attached molecules) around them, which affect the electronic energy levels. As a result, different complexes can appear in vibrant colors like blue, green, or purple, making their color a visual indicator of their chemical structure and electronic properties.