Question

Consider the complex ions, trans- ${\left[Co(en){}_{2}C{l}_2\right]}^{+}(A)$ and cis${\left[Co(en){}_{2}C{l}_2\right]}^{+}(B).$ The correct statement regarding them is:

• A. both (A) and (B) can be optically active
• B. both (A) and (B) cannot be optically active
• C. (A) can be optically active, but (B) cannot be optically active
• D. (A) cannot be optically active, but (B) can be optically active

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

(A) trans-${\left[Co(en{)}_{2}C{l}_2\right]}^{+}$



$\Rightarrow$ (A) is trans form and shows plane of symmetry which is optically inactive (not optically active)

(B) cis- ${\left[Co(en{)}_{2}C{l}_2\right]}^{+}$



$\Rightarrow (B)$ is cis form and does not shows plane of symmetry, hence it is optically active