Understand the definition of a coordination compound: It is a compound that consists of a central metal atom or ion bonded to surrounding molecules or anions, known as ligands.
Identify the components of a coordination compound: It typically includes a complex ion and counterions. The complex ion consists of the metal ion and the ligands.
Recognize that ligands are molecules or ions that donate a pair of electrons to the metal ion, forming a coordinate covalent bond.
Differentiate between the complex ion and counterions: The complex ion is the metal ion with its attached ligands, while counterions are ions that balance the charge of the complex ion.
Conclude that a coordination compound is made up of a complex ion (metal ion + ligands) and counterions, which is the correct answer to the problem.