Optical Isomerism

Question

Which complex can show optical isomerism?

RankGuru · Accepted Answer

1. **Condition**: A complex molecule is optically active if it is **chiral** (lacks a plane of symmetry).
2. **Evaluation of $[Co(en)_3]^{3+}$**: This complex contains three bidentate ligands wrapping around the metal. Two non-superimposable mirror images (called $\Delta$ and $\Lambda$ enantiomers) can be formed.
3. **Evaluation of others**:
   - $[PtCl_4]^{2-}$ is square planar and has multiple planes of symmetry.
   - $[Fe(CN)_6]^{4-}$ and $[Ni(NH_3)_6]^{2+}$ are octahedral with 6 identical ligands, making them highly symmetric and achiral.

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Optical Isomerism

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More optical isomerism Practice Questions

A compound is optically active if it:

Which complex shows optical isomerism?

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