How many geometrical isomers are possible for complex [Mab(AB)2]^n\pm ? — Coordination Compounds Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: A spin-only magnetic moment of \sqrt{24} BM corresponds to exactly 4 unpaired electrons. Step 2: Calculate the number of unpaired electrons in [CoF3(H2O)3]: Cobalt is in the +3 oxidation state (3d^6). Since F^- and H2O are weak-field ligands, it forms a high-spin octahedral complex (t_2g^4 e_g^2), which has exactly 4 unpaired electrons. Step 3: Other options have different electron configurations (Co^2+ d^7 has 3 unpaired; Ni^2+ d^8 has 2 unpaired). Thus, [CoF3(H2O)3] is the correct species (option a).