Complete the exercises below. Determine if each of the following complexes exhibits geometric isomerism. If geometric isomers exist, determine how many there are. c. Square-planar [Pd(en)(CN)₂].

Geometric isomerism occurs when compounds have the same molecular formula and connectivity of atoms but differ in the spatial arrangement of their atoms. This type of isomerism is particularly relevant in coordination complexes, where ligands can occupy different positions around a central metal ion, leading to distinct isomers that may have different physical and chemical properties.

Square-planar geometry is a molecular shape that occurs when a central atom is surrounded by four ligands arranged at the corners of a square, typically seen in d8 metal complexes like palladium(II). In this geometry, the ligands are positioned 90 degrees apart in the same plane, which allows for the possibility of geometric isomers based on the relative positions of the ligands.

Ligands are ions or molecules that can donate a pair of electrons to a central metal atom to form a coordination complex. In the case of [Pd(en)(CN)₂], 'en' (ethylenediamine) is a bidentate ligand that binds through two donor atoms, while 'CN' (cyanide) is a monodentate ligand. The arrangement of these ligands around the palladium center influences the potential for geometric isomerism, as different spatial arrangements can lead to distinct isomers.