Consider the complex ions, trans- (A) and cis- (B). The correct statement regarding them is:

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Strategy:
 Assess both the cis- and trans- isomers of the  complex for symmetry elements to determine optical activity (chirality).

Step 1: Analyze trans- (A)
In the trans-isomer, the two  ligands sit precisely opposite each other ().
A plane cutting cleanly through the cobalt atom and the four nitrogen atoms of the ethylenediamine ligands defines a perfect mirror plane.
Because of this plane of symmetry, the trans-isomer is achiral. It cannot be optically active.

Step 2: Analyze cis- (B)
In t

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