In [MX₂L₂], square planar complexes, the ligands X can be arranged adjacent (cis) or opposite (trans). Such isomerism is not possible in tetrahedral geometry. Octahedral complexes [MX₂L₄] also exhibit similar cis-trans isomerism.

Stereoisomerism in heteroleptic complexes arises from different geometric arrangements of ligands. Examples occur in coordination numbers 4 and 6, such as square planar complexes [MX₂L₂] and octahedral complexes [MX₂L₄].

Isomers are compounds with the same chemical formula but different atom arrangements. Stereoisomers have the same chemical bonds but differ in spatial arrangement, while structural isomers have different bonds.

It is named diamminesilver(I) dicyanidoargentate(I). The Roman numerals indicate the oxidation state of silver, which is +1. The name also reflects the ligands present in the complex cations.

The name is tris(ethane-1,2–diamine)cobalt(III) sulphate. The oxidation state of cobalt is deduced from the charge on the complex cation, which is +3, as three sulphates are needed to balance two complex cations.