Question

Draw the geometrical isomers of the given complex:
[Pt(en)₂Cl₂]²⁺

Hint:

The geometrical isomers of square planar complexes depend on the arrangement of the ligands around the metal center. In this case, en is bidentate, creating cis and trans isomers with chloride ions.

Answer 1

The complex [Pt(en)$_2$Cl$_2$]$^{2+}$ can have two geometrical isomers:
- Cis isomer: Both chloride ions are adjacent to each other.
- Trans isomer: The chloride ions are opposite to each other, across the platinum center.

The en (ethylenediamine) ligands are bidentate, meaning they form a chelate, and the two chloride ions can be either adjacent (cis) or opposite (trans).