Q131P - Chemistry: Molecular Nature Of Matter And Change

Question

Consider the square planar complex shown at right. Which of the structures below are geometric isomers of it?  

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Geometric isomers are A,B and C

Step 1: Given information

The square planar complex

Step 2: Geometric (cis-trans) isomers and square planar complexes

Geometric (cis-trans) isomers - different spatial arrangements of atoms or groups, relative to the central metal ion

Square planar complexes - square planar complexes are generally formed by metal ions with  configuration which accept four ligands and form diamagnetic complexes

Step 3: Check figures for geometric isomers

Structures  and  are geometric (cis-trans) isomers of the shown square planar complex.

In structure , we can see that ligands  and  have exchanged their positions, so now, ligands  and or ligands  and  are in trans positions. In structure , we can see that ligands  and  have exchanged their positions, so now, like in the structure , ligands  and or ligands  and  are in trans positions. In structure E, we can see that ligand C came position of ligands A, B and C exchanged their positions, so now, ligands A and D and ligands  and  are in cis positions.