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How many stereoisomers are possible for lactic acid?

How many stereoisomers are possible for lactic acid?

Chemistry
Chemistry
10th Edition
ISBN:9781305957404
Author:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste
Publisher:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste
Chapter1: Chemical Foundations
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1RQ: Define and explain the differences between the following terms. a. law and theory b. theory and...
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How many stereoisomers are possible for lactic acid?

This image depicts the structural formula of lactic acid. Lactic acid, also known by its IUPAC name 2-hydroxypropanoic acid, is an organic compound with the molecular formula C₃H₆O₃. In the structural formula shown: - The molecule includes a central carbon atom connected to three groups: a hydroxyl group (OH), a methyl group (CH₃), and a carboxylic acid group (COOH). - The carbon in the center of the diagram is bonded to a hydroxyl group (-OH) on the right, which makes it an alcohol. - Below, the central carbon is double-bonded to an oxygen atom (O) and single-bonded to another hydroxyl group (OH), forming the carboxyl group (-COOH). This arrangement indicates that lactic acid has both an alcohol and a carboxylic acid functional group, classifying it as an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Lactic acid is commonly found in sour milk products, and it plays a vital role in various biochemical processes.
Transcribed Image Text:This image depicts the structural formula of lactic acid. Lactic acid, also known by its IUPAC name 2-hydroxypropanoic acid, is an organic compound with the molecular formula C₃H₆O₃. In the structural formula shown: - The molecule includes a central carbon atom connected to three groups: a hydroxyl group (OH), a methyl group (CH₃), and a carboxylic acid group (COOH). - The carbon in the center of the diagram is bonded to a hydroxyl group (-OH) on the right, which makes it an alcohol. - Below, the central carbon is double-bonded to an oxygen atom (O) and single-bonded to another hydroxyl group (OH), forming the carboxyl group (-COOH). This arrangement indicates that lactic acid has both an alcohol and a carboxylic acid functional group, classifying it as an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Lactic acid is commonly found in sour milk products, and it plays a vital role in various biochemical processes.
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