Question

Write the structure of cis- and trans-isomers of the following complex: 

[Co(en)₂Cl₂]⁻  

Answer 1

The complex [Co(en)₂Cl₂]⁻ involves cobalt (Co) as the central metal ion, coordinated by two ethylenediamine (en) ligands and two chloride (Cl⁻) ions. Ethylenediamine (en) is a bidentate ligand, meaning it coordinates to the metal through two donor atoms (nitrogen atoms). The coordination geometry of the complex is typically octahedral.

1. Cis-isomer: The two chloride ions (Cl⁻) are adjacent to each other (90° angle), and the two ethylenediamine (en) ligands are adjacent to each other.
   
2. Trans-isomer: The two chloride ions (Cl⁻) are opposite to each other (180° angle), and the two ethylenediamine (en) ligands are opposite to each other.