The coordination number of a central metal atom in a coordination compound is defined as the count of ligand donor atoms directly bonded to the metal. For the compound [Fe(C2O4)3]3-, the oxalate ligand (C2O4) is bidentate, signifying its capacity to form two bonds with the metal atom. With three oxalate ligands present, each contributing two donor atoms to the iron (Fe), the total coordination number for Fe is determined as follows:
Ligand Type
Number of Ligands
Donor Atoms Per Ligand
Total Donor Atoms
Oxalate (C2O4)
3
2
3 × 2 = 6
Therefore, the coordination number of Fe in [Fe(C2O4)3]3- is 6.