Monodentate ligands are molecules or ions that can attach to a central metal atom through a single donor atom. This means they have one site available for bonding, allowing them to coordinate with the metal in a straightforward manner. Common examples of monodentate ligands include water (H₂O), ammonia (NH₃), and chloride ions (Cl⁻). In coordination chemistry, monodentate ligands play a crucial role in forming coordination complexes. These complexes can influence the properties of the metal, such as its reactivity and color. Understanding monodentate ligands is essential for studying various applications, including catalysis and biological systems.