Define the term transition metal complex
Platinum can form the compound $[\text{Pt}({\text{NH}}_3)_4\text{Cl}_2][\text{PtCl}_4]$. State the co-ordination numbers and the oxidation numbers of platinum in the two ions in this compound.
Draw three-dimensional diagrams showing the structures of the two isomers of $[\text{Pt}({\text{NH}}_3)_4\text{Cl}_2]^{2+}$.
Solutions of the compounds $[\text{Pt}(\text{NH}_3)_4\text{Cl}_2]\text{Br}_2$ and $[\text{Pt}(\text{NH}_3)_4\text{Br}_2]\text{Cl}_2$ can be told apart by a simple chemical test. Complete the table with a test that would positively identify each compound and describe the expected observations for each one.
In this question, consider geometrical and optical isomerism. What type of isomerism is shown by the following complexes? You should answer geometrical, optical, both or neither. • octahedral $[\text{Co}(\text{NH}_2\text{CH}_2\text{CH}_2\text{NH}_2)_2\text{Cl}_2]^+$ • square planar $[\text{Ni}(\text{CN})_2\text{Cl}_2]^{2-}$ • tetrahedral $[\text{CuBr}_2\text{Cl}_2]^{2-}$
Many enzymes contain transition metal complexes. Describe, with the help of a suitably labelled diagram, how an enzyme catalyses the breakdown of a substrate molecule.