https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.C01203
A
molecular entity
formed by loose association
involving two or more component molecular entities (ionic or uncharged), or the corresponding chemical species
. The bonding between the components is normally weaker than in a covalent bond
. The term has also been used with a variety of shades of meaning in different contexts: it is therefore best avoided when a more explicit alternative is applicable. In inorganic chemistry the term 'coordination entity
' is recommended instead of 'complex'.See also:
activated complex
, adduct
, charge-transfer complex
, electron-donor-acceptor complex
, encounter complex
, inclusion compound
, σ-adduct
, π-adduct
, transition state