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Question

The complex that exists as a pair of enantiomers is

The correct answer is
$[Co(H_2NCH_2CH_2NH_2)_3]^{3+}$

To determine which complex exists as a pair of enantiomers, we need to identify the chiral complex among the given options. Chirality in coordination complexes arises from the absence of symmetry elements like a plane of symmetry (σ) or a center of symmetry (i).

Chirality Analysis of Complexes

  • Option 1: $trans-[Co(H_2NCH_2CH_2NH_2)_2Cl_2]^+$
    • This is an octahedral complex of the type [MA2B2], where A is the bidentate ligand ethylenediamine (en) and B is the monodentate ligand chloride (Cl).
    • The trans isomer, with the two Cl- ligands opposite each other, possesses a plane of symmetry.
    • Therefore, this complex is achiral.
  • Option 2: $cis-[Co(NH_3)_4Cl_2]^+$
    • This is an octahedral complex of the type [MA4B2], where A is ammonia (NH3) and B is chloride (Cl).
    • The cis isomer, with the two Cl- ligands adjacent, has a plane of symmetry passing through the metal and the two Cl ligands.
    • Therefore, this complex is achiral.
  • Option 3: $[Pt(PPh_3)(Cl)(Br)(CH_3)]^-$
    • This is a square planar complex with four different monodentate ligands: PPh3, Cl, Br, and CH3.
    • A square planar complex with four distinct ligands is typically chiral.
  • Option 4: $[Co(H_2NCH_2CH_2NH_2)_3]^{3+}$
    • This is an octahedral complex of the type [M(AA)3]n+, where AA is the symmetrical bidentate ligand ethylenediamine (en).
    • Complexes of the type [M(AA)3]n+, with symmetrical bidentate ligands like ethylenediamine, lack any plane or center of symmetry.
    • The arrangement of the three ethylenediamine ligands around the central cobalt ion creates a chiral structure.
    • Therefore, this complex exists as a pair of enantiomers.

Conclusion on Enantiomers

The complex that exhibits chirality and exists as a pair of enantiomers is the one lacking symmetry elements. Based on the analysis, the complex $[Co(H_2NCH_2CH_2NH_2)_3]^{3+}$ fits this criterion.

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Important Questions from Coordination Chemistry

  1. Consider the figure given below, where M is a metal and L is a monodentate ligand. The $\sigma$-bonding ligand group orbital (LGO) having same symmetry with $d_{z^2}$ orbital of M in the octahedral coordination geometry is

  2. Among the following, the compound with the lowest CO stretching frequency is
  3. The complex(es) that exhibit(s) optical isomerism is (are)
  4. Among the given platinum(II) complexes, the one that is thermally the most unstable is

     

  5. According to Irving-Williams series, the number of d electrons for the first row transition metal (M) ion having the highest overall stability constant (log $\beta$) for $[M(EDTA)]^{2-}$ is ________
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