Question

Name the type of isomerism exhibited by the following compounds. Also, draw their corresponding isomers.

(I) \( [\text{Co(NH}_3\text{)}_6][\text{Cr(CN)}_6] \)

(II) \( [\text{Co(en)}_3]^{3+} \)

(III) \( [\text{Co(NH}_3\text{)}_3(\text{NO}_2)_3] \)

Answer 1

(I) The complex \( [\text{Co(NH}_3\text{)}_6][\text{Cr(CN)}_6] \) exhibits ionization isomerism. Ionization isomerism arises when the exchange of ligands between the cationic and anionic parts results in the formation of different ions in solution.

(II) The complex \( [\text{Co(en)}_3]^{3+} \) exhibits linkage isomerism, as the ethylenediamine (en) ligand can bind through different sites.

(III) The complex \( [\text{Co(NH}_3\text{)}_3(\text{NO}_2)_3] \) exhibits geometric isomerism, as the arrangement of ligands around the metal ion can vary.