Solution
Related Formula
Complex type [M(AA)₃] lacks a plane of symmetry and forms d- and l-enantiomers.
Core Logic
Reaction of ferric chloride with potassium hydroxide and oxalic acid forms potassium trioxalatoferrate(III):
FeCl₃ + 3 KOH + 3 H₂C₂O₄ arrow K₃[Fe(C₂O₄)₃] + 3 HCl + 3 H₂OComplex (A) is [Fe(C₂O₄)₃]³⁻, which is a homoleptic tris-bidentate complex of type [M(AA)₃].
Step 1: Calculation
Complexes of type [M(AA)₃] are chiral and exist as two non-superimposable mirror images (d-dextrorotatory and l-levorotatory optical isomers).
Therefore, total optical isomers = 2.
Pattern Recognition
[M(AA)₃] octahedral complex arrow 0 geometrical isomers, exactly 2 optical isomers (d- and l- pair).
Chapter Mix
Class 12 Chemistry: Coordination Compounds