Question:

The secondary valency of Co in $[Co(en)_{3}]_{2}(SO_{4})_{3}$ is:

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Secondary Valency = (Number of Ligands) $\times$ (Denticity of the Ligand).
Updated On: Jul 22, 2026
  • 12
  • 2
  • 3
  • 6
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Concept
In Werner's coordination theory, primary valency corresponds to the oxidation state, while secondary valency corresponds to the coordination number of the central metal ion.

Step 2: Meaning
The coordination number is the total number of coordinate covalent bonds the ligands form with the central metal atom.

Step 3: Analysis
In the complex ion $[Co(en)_{3}]^{3+}$, the ligand "en" represents ethylenediamine. Ethylenediamine is a bidentate ligand, meaning a single molecule donates two pairs of electrons to form two coordinate bonds. There are 3 "en" molecules.

Step 4: Conclusion
The total number of coordinate bonds is $3 \text{ ligands} \times 2 \text{ bonds/ligand} = 6$. Therefore, the secondary valency is 6.

Final Answer: (D)
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