The Question is from neet-chemistry coordination-compounds werners-theory, and it was created by the author Mr. S M HUSSAIN

Question

A complex ion [M(en)2(NH3)2]Cl2 shows geometrical isomerism and exists in cis and trans forms. If the cis isomer shows optical activity, the configuration around the central metal ion M is:

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: C
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
	**Primary Concept**: Coordination Chemistry, Isomerism, Optical Activity
	**Related Topics**: Geometrical Isomers (cis-trans), Optical Isomers (enantiomers), Coordination Number, Ligands
	**Prerequisites**: Understanding of isomerism, coordination complexes, and the conditions for optical activity.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
	The complex ion is [M(en)2(NH3)2]Cl2.
	It shows geometrical (cis-trans) isomerism.
	The *cis* isomer is optically active.
**Method & Steps**:
	1. **Analyze the given information**: The presence of both geometrical and optical isomerism provides crucial clues about the coordination geometry.
		Reasoning: Geometrical isomerism arises from different spatial arrangements of ligands around the central metal ion. Optical isomerism arises when a molecule/ion lacks a plane of symmetry and thus has non-superimposable mirror images (enantiomers).
	2. **Consider possible geometries**:  Linear, tetrahedral, square planar, and octahedral are common geometries.
		Working: Linear and tetrahedral complexes rarely exhibit geometrical isomerism.  Square planar complexes with the formula [MA2B2] can exhibit cis-trans isomerism, but the cis isomer would possess a plane of symmetry and therefore would *not* be optically active. 
		Key Point: For a complex with the formula [M(en)2(NH3)2]2+, only an octahedral arrangement allows for both cis-trans isomerism *and* optical activity in the cis isomer.
	3. **Visualize the cis isomer in octahedral geometry**: Imagine the two en ligands and the two NH3 ligands arranged around the central metal ion in a cis configuration. You'll find it's non-superimposable on its mirror image.
		Result: Octahedral
		Verification: The trans isomer in an octahedral arrangement *will* have a plane of symmetry, consistent with the fact that only the cis isomer is optically active.
## OPTION ANALYSIS
[A] :x: Tetrahedral: Unlikely to show cis-trans isomerism with this formula, and even if it did, the cis isomer would not be optically active.
[B] :x: Square planar: Can show cis-trans isomerism, but the cis isomer would have a plane of symmetry and thus would not be optically active.
[C] ✓: Octahedral: Allows for both cis-trans isomerism and optical activity in the cis isomer, fitting all the given information.
[D] :x: Linear: Cannot exhibit geometrical isomerism.
## LEARNING AIDS
	**Common Mistakes**:
		1. Confusing geometrical and optical isomerism: Remember that a molecule can be geometrically isomeric but not optically active.
		2. Not visualizing the structures: Drawing or visualizing the different isomers is crucial for understanding their symmetry and optical activity.
	**Quick Tips**:
		1. Consider the symmetry of the molecule: Optical activity requires a lack of a plane of symmetry and an inversion center.
		2. Practice identifying different types of isomerism: Work through various examples to develop a strong understanding of isomerism in coordination complexes.

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Answer

Tetrahedral

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Answer

Square planar

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Answer

The correct Option is "Octahedral"

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Answer

Linear

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