Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Chemistry

Chapter

Inorganic: Coordination Compounds

Question:

The number of isomers possible for complex K2[PdClBr (SCN)2] is

Options:

1

2

3

4

Correct Answer:

4

Explanation:

Let us analyze the coordination compound \(K_2[PdClBr(SCN)_2]\):

1. Coordination Number (CN) of Pd: The central palladium (Pd) ion will have a coordination number of 4 because there are two chloride (Cl) ligands, one bromide (Br) ligand, and two thiocyanate (SCN) ligands.

2. Possible Hybridizations: Considering the CN of 4, Pd can exhibit either sp3 or dsp2 hybridization.

3. Hybridization Chosen: The hybridization will likely be \(dsp^2\), as transition metals (like Pd) often exhibit inner orbital hybridization.

4. Geometrical Isomerism:  Since the hybridization is \(dsp^2\), geometrical isomerism is possible.

5. Possible Geometrical Isomers:  For \(dsp^2\), there are two possible geometrical isomers - cis and trans.

6. Ambidentate Ligand: SCN is ambidentate and can coordinate through either the nitrogen (N) or sulfur (S) atom.

Considering the factors mentioned, let's determine the number of isomers:

Geometrical Isomers: cis and trans (2 isomers)
Thiocyanate Isomers: SCN coordinating through either N or S (2 isomers for each geometrical isomer)

So, the total number of isomers for the complex \(K_2[PdClBr(SCN)_2]\) is \(2 \times 2 = 4\). There are four possible isomers, taking into account both geometrical isomerism and the ambidentate nature of the thiocyanate ligands.