Chapter 10, Problem 9PP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The stereoisomeric properties of the products of chlorination of $(S)\text{-}2\text{-chloropentane}$ are to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Stereoisomers are characterized for the molecules that have same molecular formula and arrangement of atoms but differ in the spatial orientation of groups in the molecule.

Stereoisomers are further divided into enantiomers and diastereomers. Diastereomers are the stereoisomers that are non-superimposable and non-mirror images of each other.

A meso isomer, or the meso compound, is a stereoisomer which has a superimposable mirror image.

A meso compound is optically inactive due to presence internal compensation