Question

Describe a simple test that will allow you to distinguish between the compounds:
`[Co(NH_(3))_(5)Br]SO_(4)` and `[Co(NH_(3))_(5)SO_(4)]Br.`

Answer 1

i) Treat both the isomers separately with aqueous `BaCl_(2)` solution. The isomer which gives a white precipitate is `[Co(NH_(3))_(5)Br]SO_(4)`.
ii) Treat both the isomes separately with aqueous `AgNO_(3)` solutions. The isomer which gives a light yellow precipate is `[Co(NH_(3))_(5)SO_(4)]Br`.