alleryWhich complex would exhibit **optical isomerism**?
A$[Pt(NH_3)_2Cl_2]$ (square planar)
B$[Co(NH_3)_6]^{3+}$
C**cis**-$[Co(en)_2Cl_2]^+$ (chiral)
D**trans**-$[Co(en)_2Cl_2]^+$
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: C. **cis**-$[Co(en)_2Cl_2]^+$ (chiral)
Only cis-$[Co(en)_2Cl_2]^+$ lacks a mirror plane (it's chiral).
The trans isomer has a $C_2$ axis and a mirror plane → achiral.
Homoleptic $[Co(NH_3)_6]^{3+}$ is highly symmetric → achiral.
Square planar geometries typically are achiral.
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