ChemistryCoordination compoundsClass 12
Coordination isomerism and naming: interactive simulation
In octahedral [M(AA)₂b₂] the cis isomer has no mirror plane, so it exists as a pair of enantiomers. The trans isomer has a mirror plane and is optically inactive.
Useful for: JEE Main, JEE Advanced, NEET, CBSE Boards
Try this
- 1
Switch from cis to trans.
What you should see
The optical-activity readout changes from yes to no.
- 2
Open the optical-isomer frame.
What you should see
The two chelate rings can spiral as Δ or Λ. They are non-superimposable mirror images.
Formulas behind it
Example
Common mistakes
- Calling the trans isomer optically active. The mirror plane through the two monodentate ligands rules that out.
FAQ
What is the IUPAC name of cis-[Co(en)₂Cl₂]⁺?
cis-dichloridobis(ethane-1,2-diamine)cobalt(III). Chlorido comes before the diamine alphabetically, and cobalt is +3.
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