Question

Write the IUPAC name of the complex \([ \text{Pt(en)}_2 \text{Cl}_2 ]^{2+}\). Draw the structure of the geometrical isomer of this complex which is optically inactive.

Hint:

Geometrical isomerism occurs when ligands in a coordination compound can arrange themselves in different spatial configurations. Optical isomerism depends on the symmetry of the complex.

Answer 1

The IUPAC name of the complex \([ \text{Pt(en)}_2 \text{Cl}_2 ]^{2+}\) is "dichlorido bis(ethylenediamine) platinum(II) ion." The structure of the geometrical isomer, which is optically inactive, can be described as the cis-isomer, where the two chloride ions are adjacent to each other. In the trans-isomer, the chloride ions are opposite to each other, which results in optical inactivity due to symmetry.