Which complex is likely to show optical activity? — Coordination Compounds Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: Understand that the coordination number (CN) of a central metal atom is defined as the total number of coordinate (sigma) bonds formed between the ligands and the metal center. Step 2: Pi-bonds involved in back-bonding or synergic bonding do not contribute to the coordination number. Step 3: Consequently, the coordination number is determined by the number of monodentate ligands around the metal ion bonded specifically via sigma-bonds, which corresponds to option (d).