Do either cis-#[3Co(en)_2Cl_2]^+# or trans-#[3Co(en)_2Cl_2]^-# have optical isomers?

1 Answer
anor277
Aug 7, 2015

The cis complex does support optical isomerism, (I take it you mean #[Co(en)_2Cl_2]^+#).

Explanation:

The trans complex has planar symmetry. The cis complex, however, can support optical isomerism in that the ethylenediamine ligands cannot coordinate across 2 trans positions. I could not find an image on the webs to illustrate this isomerism, I suggest you consult a text of inorganic chemistry. When the 2 chloro ligands are cis, 2 non-superposable optical isomers result.

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