Symmetry consideration for the interpretation of isomeric product distribution in spontaneous aquation of octahedral cobalt(III) complexes

Abstract

The stereochemical changes involved in the aquation of octahedral cobalt(III) complexes [(N₄Co(A)X]ⁿ⁺, where X is a leaving group, are related to the stereomobility of the transition state and/or the Intermediate generated in the dissociative mode of reaction of the parent substrate. An attempt is made to explain the relative isomer distribution in the products of spontaneous aquation of such complexes applying a recently developed symmetry selection rule.