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Question #44203

Difficulty: 8/10 | 🟢 Free

The Question

Consider the neutral octahedral complexes \ce{[Cu(en)2Cl2]} (Complex P) and \ce{[Ni(en)2Cl2]} (Complex Q) synthesized under standard conditions at 298 K. Let $x$ be the total number of thermodynamically stable stereoisomers of Complex P. Let $y$ be the total number of thermodynamically stable stereoisomers of Complex Q. Let $z$ be the number of unpaired electrons in the complex that exhibits a strong static Z-out Jahn-Teller distortion. Determine the value of the expression $(x \times y) + z$ .

Options

A.
4
B.
10
C.
5
D.
3

Check Your Answer

Correct Answer

Step-by-Step Solution

Explanation

How the Examiner Thinks

Exception_Exposure

Learn to identify edge cases and boundary exceptions that JEE examiners hide in math problems.

Concepts Behind This Question

Bond Angle Variations|Geometric Isomerism Requirements|Crystal Field Splitting (Octahedral)

Why This Question Is Tricky

Common Mistakes

The question tests the intersection of Crystal Field Theory (Jahn-Teller distortion) and stereochemistry (chelate ring strain).

Students often memorize that \ce{[M(en)2X2]} complexes exhibit both cis and trans isomerism (like the classic $Co^{3+}$ or $Ni^{2+}$ examples).

The 'Hidden Variable' is the $d^9$ electronic configuration of $Cu^{2+}$ , which mandates a Z-out distortion.

Students failing to account for the physical elongation of the axial bonds will incorrectly assume the cis isomer is stable, overlooking the severe geometric strain it would impose on the rigid bidentate ethylenediamine ligand.

Quick Facts About This Question

Question Information

Subject	Chemistry
Chapter	Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure - Class 11 Part 1
Concept	Bond Angle Variations
Difficulty	8
Cognitive Load	7
Target Solve Time	160 sec
Access	Free