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Chemistry Forums for Students => Inorganic Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: Kyriee on December 31, 2019, 09:54:33 AM

Title: Lambda/Delta isomers and effect on solubility
Post by: Kyriee on December 31, 2019, 09:54:33 AM

Hi all!
We recently synthesized the Λ and Δ isomers of the tris-ethylendiamine Cobalt iodide ( [Co(en)3]I3 ).
After the synthesis, we separed them with a simple Buchner filtration, and washed the precipitate with an aqueous solution of 40% ethanol. We kept the solid precipitate ( Λ isomer ) and discarded of the solution ( containing the Δ isomer ).
My question is the following: how does the Δ/Λ isomerism influence the solubility of the complex?
Why was the Lambda isomer almost completely insoluble, while the solution was bright orange due to the complete solubilization of Delta isomer?

Thank you all in advance!

Title: Re: Lambda/Delta isomers and effect on solubility
Post by: Zewski on February 01, 2020, 08:23:54 AM

Both complexes are enantiomers and that means that they have exactly the same physical properties. Unless you used enantiopure solvent you wouldnt be able to separate them through precipitation...