Question

Which of the following cannot show linkage isomerism?

• A. $N{O}_2^{-}$
• B. $SC{N}^{-}$
• C. $C{N}^{-}$
• D. $N{H}_3$

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

$N{H}_3$

In order for a ligand to show linkage isomerism, there should be atleast $2$ donor atoms in it.

In $N{H}_3$, there is only $1$ donor atom i.e., nitrogen atom. So, it can donate only through nitrogen atom and therefore, it cannot show linkage isomerism.

All the other ligands $(N{O}_2^{-},SC{N}^{-},C{N}^{-})$ have more than one donor atom and therefore, can show linkage isomerism.