How many geometric isomers are possible for the complex ion[Co(NH₃)₃(OH₂)₃]³⁺? A) 4 B) 1 C) 0 D) 2 E) 3

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

There are two coordination sites available in the complex ion for geometric isomerism to occur, namely the two nitrogen atoms of the NH₃ ligand. Each of these nitrogen atoms can have either a cis or trans arrangement with respect to the OH₂ ligand. Therefore, there are two possible arrangements for each nitrogen atom, giving a total of four possible geometric isomers (cis-cis, cis-trans, trans-cis, and trans-trans).

How Many Geometric Isomers Are Possible for the Complex Ion[Co(NH3)3(OH2)3]3+

How Many Geometric Isomers Are Possible for the Complex Ion[Co(NH₃)₃(OH₂)₃]³⁺