Problem 24

Question

The complex compound used in the chemotherapy of cancer is (a) cis- \(\left[\mathrm{Pt}^{\mathrm{IV}}\left(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\right)_{2} \mathrm{Cl}_{4}\right]\) (b) trans-[Pt \(\left.^{\mathrm{ll}}\left(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\right)_{2} \mathrm{Cl}_{2}\right]\) (c) cis- \(\left[\mathrm{Pt}^{\mathrm{IV}}\left(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\right)_{4} \mathrm{Cl}_{2}\right] \mathrm{Cl}_{2}\) (d) cis-[Pt \(\left.^{\text {ll }}\left(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\right)_{2} \mathrm{Cl}_{2}\right]\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
The correct compound is (d) cis-[Pt(NH3)2Cl2].
1Step 1: Understand the Question
The question is asking to identify which complex compound is used in cancer chemotherapy.
2Step 2: Know the Common Chemotherapy Drug
One known complex compound used in chemotherapy is cisplatin, which has the chemical formula cis-[Pt(NH3)2Cl2]. This compound is effective in treating various types of cancer.
3Step 3: Identify the Correct Compound
Review the list of possible answers given in the question and find the one that matches cisplatin's structure.
4Step 4: Verify the Correct Structure
cis-[Pt(NH3)2Cl2] is the structure of cisplatin. Check the options in the question for a match.
5Step 5: Select the Correct Answer
Option (d) cis-[Pt(NH3)2Cl2] matches the cisplatin structure, which is used in chemotherapy of cancer.

Key Concepts

CisplatinCancer TreatmentComplex Compounds in Chemistry
Cisplatin
Cisplatin is a well-known chemotherapy drug used primarily to treat various types of cancer. This compound has a unique chemical structure, specifically cis-[Pt(NH3)2Cl2].

The term "cis" refers to the arrangement of the ligands around the central platinum atom. In cisplatin, two chloride ions and two ammonia molecules are bonded in the same plane, with the ammonia molecules adjacent to each other. This specific structure is crucial for its effectiveness as an anti-cancer agent.

When used in chemotherapy, cisplatin works by interacting with DNA in cancer cells. It forms cross-links in the DNA, preventing the cancer cells from dividing and leading to cell death. This makes cisplatin a vital tool in the fight against cancer.
Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatment is a complex and multi-faceted field designed to target and eliminate cancerous cells in the body. One method of treatment is chemotherapy, which uses powerful drugs like cisplatin to kill cancer cells.

Chemotherapy is unique because it targets rapidly dividing cells, which are a hallmark of cancer. However, it also affects healthy cells that divide quickly, such as those in hair follicles and the digestive tract.

The effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs depends on:
  • The type of cancer being treated
  • The specific combination and dosage of drugs used
  • The patient's overall health and treatment response
Despite potential side effects, chemotherapy remains a cornerstone of cancer treatment, often used in combination with other methods like surgery and radiation therapy.
Complex Compounds in Chemistry
Complex compounds, also known as coordination compounds, play a significant role in various chemical processes and applications. In chemistry, a complex compound consists of a central metal atom or ion bonded to surrounding molecules or ions, known as ligands.

These compounds exhibit unique properties that depend on:
  • The nature of the central metal atom or ion
  • The types of ligands attached to it
  • The spatial arrangement of these ligands
Cisplatin is an example of a complex compound, where platinum serves as the central metal atom. Its chemical structure and arrangement are vital to its role as a chemotherapy drug. The study of these complex compounds is essential, as it helps in the development of new drugs and technologies in various fields.