What is the formula for the Tetraammineaquachloridocobalt (III) chloride coordination compound? |
$[Co(NH_3)_4(H_2O)Cl]Cl_2$ $[Co(NH_3)_4(H_2O)_2]Cl_3$ $[Co(NH_3)_4(H_2O)Cl_2]Cl$ $[Co(NH_3)_4Cl_2]Cl.H_2O$ |
$[Co(NH_3)_4(H_2O)Cl]Cl_2$ |
The correct answer is Option (1) → $[Co(NH_3)_4(H_2O)Cl]Cl_2$ In coordination compounds, the name inside the brackets tells us the ligands directly bonded to the metal ion, and the last word (outside "chloride") indicates counter-ions outside the coordination sphere. Breaking the name: Tetraammineaquachloridocobalt(III)
Total ligand charge inside complex: $NH_3 (0) + H_2O (0) + Cl^- (-1)$ So, charge on complex ion: $Co^{3+} + (-1) = +2$ Complex ion = $[Co(NH_3)_4(H_2O)Cl]^{2+}$ Final word: chloride This means chloride ions are present outside the coordination sphere as counter ions. To balance $+2$ charge $\rightarrow$ need $2 \text{ Cl}^-$ $[Co(NH_3)_4(H_2O)Cl]Cl_2$ Why other options are incorrect Option 2: has two aqua ligands and no coordinated chloride $\rightarrow$ does not match the name. Option 3: has two coordinated chlorides, but name mentions only one chlorido. Option 4: shows two chlorides inside and water outside $\rightarrow$ wrong ligand positions. |