SYNTHESIS OF ZINC (II) COMPLEX OF SCHIFF BASE LIGAND DERIVED FROM 2-AMINOPHENYL HYDROXAMIC ACID.

ABSTRACT This study investigates the synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial potential of the Zinc (II) complex of N-hydroxy-2-((2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzyl) amino) benzamide, a ligand incorporating hydroxamic and phenolic functional groups. The Zinc (II) complex was synthesized through a direct reaction between the ligand and Zinc (II) chloride using methanol as a solvent. The resulting complex was characterized using melting point determination, solubility tests, and conductivity measurements to confirm its formation and assess its physical properties. The melting point analysis indicated the formation of a stable complex with a higher melting point compared to the free ligand. Solubility tests revealed that the complex is soluble in polar solvents such as methanol, ethanol, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), while it exhibited limited solubility in non-polar solvents. Conductivity measurements in solution confirmed the non-electrolytic nature of the complex, suggesting the absence of ionic dissociation in polar solvents. The antimicrobial activity of the Zinc (II) complex was evaluated against selected Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. Results indicated that the complex exhibits moderate antibacterial activity, likely due to its ability to disrupt essential metal-dependent processes within bacterial cells. This research demonstrates the potential of Zinc (II) complexes with hydroxamic acid derivatives for antibacterial applications.