For the process Co(NH₃)₅Cl²⁺ + Cl^- → Co(NH₃)₄Cl₂⁺ + NH₃, what would be the ratio of cis to trans isomers in the product? A) 4:1 B) 1:1 C) 2:1 D) 1:2 E) 1:4

Question

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The reaction involves the substitution of a chloride ion for an ammonia molecule in the coordination sphere of the cobalt(III) ion. The product is a square planar complex with two chloride ions and four ammonia molecules. The cis isomer has the two chloride ions on the same side of the cobalt(III) ion, while the trans isomer has the two chloride ions on opposite sides of the cobalt(III) ion. The ratio of cis to trans isomers in the product is 4:1.

For the Process Co(NH3)5Cl2+ + Cl- → Co(NH3)4Cl2+ + NH3

For the Process Co(NH₃)₅Cl²⁺ + Cl^- → Co(NH₃)₄Cl₂⁺ + NH₃