MasteryExams
General Science • ChemistryHard

Which of the following compounds exhibits optical isomerism due to the absence of a plane of symmetry and center of symmetry?

A. cis-[Co(Cl)2(en)2]+✓ Correct Answer
B. trans-[Co(Cl)2(en)2]+
C. [PtCl4]2-
D. [Zn(NH3)4]2+

💡 Solution & Explanation

The cis isomer of the coordination complex [Co(Cl)2(en)2]+ lacks both a plane of symmetry and a center of symmetry, allowing it to rotate plane-polarized light and exhibit optical isomerism. Conversely, the trans isomer possesses a center of inversion, which prevents chiral behavior and makes it optically inactive. Bidentate ethylenediamine ligands frequently create chiral cis configurations in octahedral metal complexes.

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