Optical Isomerism
Mediumchemistry
Which complex can show optical isomerism?
Select the correct option:
Solution
Incorrect! Answer:
[Co(en)3]3+
- Condition: A complex molecule is optically active if it is chiral (lacks a plane of symmetry).
- Evaluation of [Co(en)3]3+: This complex contains three bidentate ligands wrapping around the metal. Two non-superimposable mirror images (called Δ and Λ enantiomers) can be formed.
- Evaluation of others:
- [PtCl4]2− is square planar and has multiple planes of symmetry.
- [Fe(CN)6]4− and [Ni(NH3)6]2+ are octahedral with 6 identical ligands, making them highly symmetric and achiral.
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About This Question
- Subject
- chemistry
- Chapter
- coordination compounds
- Topic
- optical isomerism
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Year
- 2025
Solution
Correct Answer:
[Co(en)3]3+
- Condition: A complex molecule is optically active if it is chiral (lacks a plane of symmetry).
- Evaluation of [Co(en)3]3+: This complex contains three bidentate ligands wrapping around the metal. Two non-superimposable mirror images (called Δ and Λ enantiomers) can be formed.
- Evaluation of others:
- [PtCl4]2− is square planar and has multiple planes of symmetry.
- [Fe(CN)6]4− and [Ni(NH3)6]2+ are octahedral with 6 identical ligands, making them highly symmetric and achiral.
This medium difficulty chemistry question is from the chapter coordination compounds, covering the topic of optical isomerism. It appeared in the 2025 exam.
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