Question:

Consider the coordination compound, \([\mathrm{Co(NH_3)_6}]\mathrm{Cl_3}\). In the formation of this complex, the species which acts as the Lewis acid is:

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A Lewis acid is an electron-pair acceptor; in a complex the central metal ion accepts lone pairs from the ligands.
Updated On: Nov 11, 2026
  • \([\mathrm{Co(NH_3)_6}]^{3+}\)
  • \(\mathrm{Cl^-}\)
  • \(\mathrm{Co^{3+}}\)
  • \(\mathrm{NH_3}\)
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

In the formation of the complex, six \(\mathrm{NH_3}\) molecules donate their lone pairs of electrons (Lewis bases, ligands).
The central metal ion \(\mathrm{Co^{3+}}\) has vacant d, s and p orbitals and accepts these electron pairs, so it is the Lewis acid.
\([\mathrm{Co(NH_3)_6}]^{3+}\) is the product (complex ion) and \(\mathrm{Cl^-}\) is only the counter ion.
Answer: (3) \(\mathrm{Co^{3+}}\)
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