Question

Which of the following is expected to exhibit optical isomerism? (en= ethylenediamine)

• A. $\text{cis}-\left[Pt{\left(N{H}_3\right)}_{2}C{l}_2\right]$
• B. $\text{trans}-\left[Co{\left(en\right)}_{2}C{l}_2\right]$
• C. $\text{trans}-\left[Pt{\left(N{H}_3\right)}_{2}C{l}_2\right]$
• D. $\text{cis}-\left[Co{\left(en\right)}_{2}C{l}_2\right]$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $\text{cis}-\left[Co{\left(en\right)}_{2}C{l}_2\right]$

The cis form of $\left[Co{\left(en\right)}_{2}C{l}_2\right]$ is optically active as there is no centre of symmetry or plane of symmetry in the said complex.