Question:

Consider the complex ions,
trans-\(\mathrm{[Co(en)_2Cl_2]^{+}}\) (A) and
cis-\(\mathrm{[Co(en)_2Cl_2]^{+}}\) (B).
The correct statement regarding them is :

Show Hint

Check for a plane of symmetry: the trans isomer has one (achiral), whereas the cis isomer is non-superimposable on its mirror image.
Updated On: Nov 5, 2026
  • both (A) and (B) can be optically active.
  • both (A) and (B) can not be optically active.
  • (A) can not be optically active, but (B) can be optically active.
  • (A) can be optically active, but (B) can not be optically active.
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

\(\mathrm{[Co(en)_2Cl_2]^{+}}\) is an octahedral complex of type \(\mathrm{[M(AA)_2X_2]}\), where en is a symmetric bidentate ligand.
trans-isomer (A): the two Cl ligands are on opposite (axial) positions and both en rings lie in the equatorial plane. The equatorial plane is a plane of symmetry, so (A) is achiral and optically inactive.
cis-isomer (B): the two Cl ligands are adjacent. It has no plane or centre of symmetry, and its mirror image cannot be superimposed on it. It exists as a pair of enantiomers (\(\Delta\) and \(\Lambda\)), so (B) can be optically active.
Therefore (A) cannot be optically active but (B) can.
Answer: (3) (A) can not be optically active, but (B) can be optically active.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0