Question

Give the formula of the compound: Hexaammineplatinum(IV) chloride

Answer 1

Typical of Pt(IV), the metal centers adopt an octahedral coordination geometry, {PtCl6}. This geometry is achieved by forming a polymer wherein half of the chloride ligands bridge between the platinum centers. Because of its polymeric structure, PtCl4 dissolves only upon breaking the chloride bridging ligands. Thus, addition of HCl give H2PtCl6.