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Chapter 20: Problem 20

How many geometric isomers are in these species: (a) \(\left[\mathrm{Co}\left(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\right)_{2} \mathrm{Cl}_{4}\right]^{-},(\mathrm{b})\left[\mathrm{Co}\left(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\right)_{3} \mathrm{Cl}_{3}\right] ?\)

Short Answer

Expert verified
The complex compound (a) [Co(NH3)2Cl4]- has 2 geometric isomers and the compound (b) [Co(NH3)3Cl3] also has 2 geometric isomers.

Step by step solution

01

Identify the Ligands

In both coordination compounds, the ligands surrounding the central cobalt ion (Co) are Ammonia (NH3) and Chlorine (Cl). The number of different ways these ligands can align themselves around the central Co ion leads to geometrical isomerism.
02

Determine the Isomers for (a) [Co(NH3)2Cl4]-

The complex [Co(NH3)2Cl4]- is a bidentate complex as it has two types of ligands. Geometrical isomers are formed when the ligands switch places. There are two possibilities in this case: (1) the two NH3 groups are adjacent to each other (cis-isomer) or (2) the two NH3 groups are opposite to each other (trans-isomer). Therefore, there are 2 geometric isomers for compound (a).
03

Determine the Isomers for (b) [Co(NH3)3Cl3]

In case of the complex [Co(NH3)3Cl3], it's a bit different because we have three of each ligand. However, the idea remains the same, resulting in two geometric isomers: \[ \text{(1) the three NH3 groups occupy a face of the octahedron (fac-isomer)} \] \[ \text{(2) the three NH3 groups lie around the meridian, i.e., one NH3 group is adjacent to the other two (mer-isomer)} \]. Thus, there are 2 geometric isomers for compound (b).

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Most popular questions from this chapter

What is the origin of color in a compound?

Transition metal complexes containing CN \(^{-}\) ligands are often yellow, whereas those containing \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) ligands are often green or blue. Explain.

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What factors determine whether a given complex will be diamagnetic or paramagnetic?

Suggest a method that would enable you to distinguish between \(\mathrm{cis}-\mathrm{Pt}\left(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\right)_{2} \mathrm{Cl}_{2}\) and trans \(-\mathrm{Pt}\left(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\right)_{2} \mathrm{Cl}_{2}\)
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