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Isomerism

Edexcel A-level ChemistryTransition MetalsLesson 5 of 21

Complex ions exhibit geometric isomerism and optical isomerism. Cis-Trans isomerism occurs if there are two different types of ligand e.g. [Pt(NH3)2Cl2] is a square planar molecule that has both cis- and trans- forms. Geometric isomerism also occurs in octahedral complexes if there are two types of ligands or 2 bidentate ligands with 2 monodentate ligands.

Diagram

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Key terms in this lesson

bidentate ligand
A ligand that can form two co-ordinate bonds to a central metal ion.

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