Question

Which of the following statements is correct according to Werner’s theory, when excess AgNO\(_3\) is treated with CoCl\(_3\)\(\cdot\)6NH\(_3\) precipitating three moles of AgCl?

• A. 2 Cl atoms and 4 NH\(_3\) molecules are in coordination sphere
• B. 3 Cl atoms are in ionization sphere
• C. 3 Cl atoms are in coordination sphere
• D. 5 NH\(_3\) and 1 Cl atom are in coordination sphere

Hint:

The number of AgCl precipitates formed equals the number of chloride ions present in the ionization sphere.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Recall Werner’s theory.
According to Werner’s coordination theory, ions present outside the coordination sphere are ionizable and can react with reagents like AgNO\(_3\).
Step 2: Analyze AgNO\(_3\) test.
Precipitation of 3 moles of AgCl indicates the presence of 3 chloride ions outside the coordination sphere (ionization sphere).
Step 3: Identify the structure.
For CoCl\(_3\)\(\cdot\)6NH\(_3\), all 3 Cl\(^{-}\) ions must be present in the ionization sphere.
Step 4: Conclusion.
The correct statement is that 3 Cl atoms are in the ionization sphere.