Editing Electron counting (section)

===Ionic counting===

* Ionic counting assumes unequal sharing of electrons in the bond. The more electronegative atom in the bond gains electron lost from the less electronegative atom.
* This method begins by calculating the number of electrons of the element, assuming an [[oxidation state]].
:E.g. for a Fe<sup>2+</sup> has 6 electrons
:S<sup>2−</sup> has 8 electrons
* Two is added for every [[halide]] or other anionic ligand which binds to the metal through a [[sigma bond]].
* Two is added for every lone pair bonding to the metal (e.g. each phosphine ligand can bind with a lone pair). Similarly Lewis and Bronsted acids (protons) contribute nothing.
* For unsaturated ligands such as alkenes, one electron is added for each carbon atom binding to the metal.