Chapter 22, Problem 24QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The structures of geometric and optical isomers of the given complexes are to be represented.

Concept introduction:

Stereoisomerism exists as two forms; geometric and optical. Geometric isomerism occurs due to breaking of chemical bonds, causing change in structural positioning of the ligands. When two ligands are placed adjacent to each other, they are called cis-isomers and when they are placed opposite to each other, they are called trans-isomers. It is more common in square planar and octahedral and less in tetrahedral complexes.

Optical isomerism is exhibited by complexes that can rotate the plane of polarized light into clockwise and anticlockwise directions. Optical isomers are non-superimposable mirror images of each other and are most common in octahedral compounds having six coordination number.