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What is the structural difference between cis and trans isomers in coordination compounds? Provide an example for each and explain the factors that determine their formation.

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The structural difference between cis and trans isomers in coordination compounds lies in the spatial arrangement of the ligands around the central metal atom. In these isomers, the composition of the coordination compound is the same, but the arrangement of the ligands differs.Cis isomers: In cis isomers, two identical ligands are adjacent to each other or on the same side of the central metal atom. This arrangement leads to a non-linear or bent geometry around the metal atom.Trans isomers: In trans isomers, two identical ligands are opposite to each other or on the opposite side of the central metal atom. This arrangement leads to a linear or planar geometry around the metal atom.Example of cis and trans isomers:Consider the coordination compound [Pt NH3 2Cl2]. It can exist in two different isomeric forms:1. Cisplatin  cis-[Pt NH3 2Cl2] : In this isomer, the two ammonia  NH3  ligands and the two chloride  Cl  ligands are adjacent to each other, forming a square planar geometry around the platinum  Pt  atom.2. Transplatin  trans-[Pt NH3 2Cl2] : In this isomer, the two ammonia  NH3  ligands are opposite to each other, and the two chloride  Cl  ligands are also opposite to each other, forming a square planar geometry around the platinum  Pt  atom.Factors determining the formation of cis and trans isomers:1. Steric factors: The size and shape of the ligands can influence the formation of cis or trans isomers. Bulky ligands may prefer the trans configuration to minimize steric hindrance.2. Electronic factors: The electronic properties of the ligands can also affect the formation of isomers. Ligands with similar electronic properties may prefer to be in the cis configuration, while ligands with different electronic properties may prefer the trans configuration.3. Crystal field effects: The crystal field splitting energy, which is the energy difference between the d-orbitals of the central metal atom in the presence of ligands, can also influence the formation of cis and trans isomers. In some cases, the cis configuration may result in a more stable compound due to lower crystal field splitting energy, while in other cases, the trans configuration may be more stable.4. Reaction conditions: The formation of cis and trans isomers can also be influenced by the reaction conditions, such as temperature, pressure, and solvent. Different reaction conditions may favor the formation of one isomer over the other.
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