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Which one of the following is expected to exhibit optical isomerism ?
(en = ethylenediamine)

  1. A
    cis-[Pt (NH3)2 Cl2]
  2. B
    trans-[Co (en)2 Cl2]
  3. C
    trans-[Pt (NH3)2 Cl2]
  4. D
    cis-[Co (en)2 Cl2]

Solution & Step-by-step Explanation

To determine which complex is expected to exhibit optical isomerism, we need to analyze the structure of each complex and the conditions required for optical isomerism. So, let's consider each option: option 1 involves cis-[Pt (NH3)2 Cl2], option 2 involves trans-[Co (en)2 Cl2], option 3 involves trans-[Pt (NH3)2 Cl2], and option 4 involves cis-[Co (en)2 Cl2]. Notice that optical isomerism is exhibited by complexes that have a non-superimposable mirror image. Think of it this way: the complex must have a chiral center, which can be a metal atom with a set of different ligands, to exhibit optical isomerism. In other words, the complex must have a non-superimposable mirror image to exhibit optical isomerism. Therefore, the correct answer is the option that involves the complex with a chiral center, which is option 4.

Practice this question

Try it yourself before checking the explanation above.

Which one of the following is expected to exhibit optical isomerism ?
(en = ethylenediamine)
A
cis-[Pt (NH3)2 Cl2]
B
trans-[Co (en)2 Cl2]
C
trans-[Pt (NH3)2 Cl2]
D
cis-[Co (en)2 Cl2]

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