Ligands

Ligands are molecules or ions that can bind to a central atom, usually a metal, to form a more complex structure called a coordination complex. In simpler terms, you can think of ligands as "guest" molecules that attach themselves to a "host" metal atom. This interaction can affect the properties and reactivity of the metal, making ligands important in various fields like chemistry, biology, and medicine. Common examples include the oxygen in hemoglobin, which helps transport oxygen in the blood, and various compounds used in catalysts to speed up chemical reactions.