Can Both Ligands in Ru(phen)2(NCS)2 Bind via the Same Atom?

[johnchau123]

[SOLVED] Linkage isomer in complexes

I would like to ask a question on linkage isomer on complexes.
Say, I have a complex Ru(phen)2(NCS)2.
NCS can exhibit linkage isomer.
Suppose I focus on linkage isomerism only, regardless of optical isomer or geometrical isomer.
Surely, the complex can exist as S-C=N->Ru<-N=C-S and N=C-S->Ru<-S-C=N.
Can the complex be exist as S-C=N->Ru<-S-C=N.

p.s.: sorry for my poor representation, = means triple bond and either -> or <- is dative covalent bond.

Thanks.
John

 

[AbedeuS]

Theres 3 isomers in that case isn't there?

1x N linkage
1x S linkage
1x Mixture

Theres technically four, but since the other "Mixture" isomer is equivalent to the first one chemically, I'd say there was three personally...

 

[Blueshift5]

Hello John,

Thank you for your question on linkage isomerism in complexes. Linkage isomerism is a type of structural isomerism in coordination compounds, where the ligands are attached to the central metal atom in different ways. In your example of Ru(phen)2(NCS)2, the ligand NCS (thiocyanate) can exhibit linkage isomerism because it can bind to the metal atom in two different ways - through the sulfur atom (S-bonding) or through the nitrogen atom (N-bonding).

To answer your question, yes, the complex can exist as S-C=N->Ru<-S-C=N. This is because in linkage isomerism, the ligands can switch their binding sites without altering the overall charge or coordination number of the complex. Therefore, the complex can exist in multiple forms with different bonding arrangements between the ligands and the central metal atom. However, it is important to note that these different forms may have different physical and chemical properties.

I hope this helps to clarify your question about linkage isomerism in complexes. If you have any further questions, please let me know.

Best regards,