Question:medium

Identify the neutral complex from the following.

Show Hint

A quick look at the chemical formulas reveals that option (B) is the only entry that completely lacks external counter-ions (like $\text{Na}^+$) or explicit ionic superscript charges (like $2+$ or $4-$), immediately revealing its neutral identity.
Updated On: Jun 4, 2026
  • $\text{Na}_3[\text{AlF}_6]$
  • $[\text{Co(NO}_2)_3(\text{NH}_3)_3]$
  • $[\text{Cu(NH}_3)_4]^{2+}$
  • $[\text{Fe(CN)}_6]^{4-}$
Show Solution

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understand the goal.
We must find the neutral complex, meaning the whole complex has zero overall charge and needs no extra ions outside it.

Step 2: Look at the obviously charged ones.
Option 3 is $[\text{Cu(NH}_3)_4]^{2+}$, which clearly carries a $+2$ charge. Option 4 is $[\text{Fe(CN)}_6]^{4-}$, which carries a $-4$ charge. So both are charged, not neutral.

Step 3: Look at option 1.
$\text{Na}_3[\text{AlF}_6]$ has three sodium ions outside, which means the complex part $[\text{AlF}_6]^{3-}$ is negatively charged. So this is not neutral.

Step 4: Test option 2 by adding charges.
In $[\text{Co(NO}_2)_3(\text{NH}_3)_3]$, cobalt is $+3$. Each $\text{NO}_2$ is $-1$, and there are three, giving $-3$. Each $\text{NH}_3$ is neutral, giving 0.

Step 5: Total the charges.
\[ (+3) + 3(-1) + 3(0) = 0 \]
The charges cancel, so this complex is neutral with no ions needed outside.

Step 6: Pick the answer.
The neutral complex is $[\text{Co(NO}_2)_3(\text{NH}_3)_3]$, which is option 2.
\[ \boxed{[\text{Co(NO}_2)_3(\text{NH}_3)_3]} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0