Chapter 22, Problem 25QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

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

Concept introduction:

Stereoisomerism exists in two forms—geometric and optical. Geometric isomerism occurs due to breaking of chemical bonds causing a change in the 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 then they are called trans-isomers. It is more common in square planar and octahedral geometry and less common in tetrahedral complexes.

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