Question

Which of the following complexes is likely to show optical activity?

Options

• [Cr(H₂O)₆]³⁺

• trans-[Co(NH₃)₂(en)₂]³⁺

• trans-[Co(NH₃)₄Cl₂]⁺

• cis-[Co(NH₃)₂(en)₂]³⁺

Answer 1

cis-[Co(NH₃)₂(en)₂]³⁺

Explanation:

The correct answer is cis-[Co(NH₃)₂(en)₂]³⁺ because it is chiral due to the asymmetrical arrangement of the ethylenediamine (en) ligands, making it optically active. The other complexes are symmetrical and do not show optical activity.