Cis-PtCl2(PEt3)2 is stable in benzene solution. However, small amounts of free triet...

Cis-PtCl₂(PEt₃)₂ is stable in benzene solution. However, small amounts of free triethylphosphine catalyze establishment of an equilibrium with the trans isomer: For the onversion of cis to trans in benzene at 25 °C,

a. Calculate the free energy change, ,and the equilibrium constant for this isomerization.

b. Which isomer has the higher bond energy? Is this answer consistent with what you would expect on the basis of p bonding in the two isomers? Explain briefly.

c. Why is free triethylphosphine necessary to catalyze the isomerization?