Question

Define the cis-trans isomerism? Show the cis-trans isomers of $\left[Co\right(N{H}_3{)}_{4}C{l}_2{]}^{+}$:

Answer 1

Isomers are defined as chemical compounds with the same chemical formula but a different arrangement of atoms. In the case of co-ordination complexes, the spatial arrangement of ligands around central metal ion gives rise to geometrical isomers. They are classified as cis- and trans- isomers. Cis- isomer have same ligands arranged adjacent to each other while in trans-isomer ligands are placed diagonally opposite in direction to each other.

In the complex $\left[Co\right(N{H}_3{)}_4{Cl}_2{]}^{+}$ the two $Cl$ placed in axial position is the trans-isomer and cis-isomer have $Cl$ in axial and equatorial position each.