Chapter 18, Problem 18.75P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The anomeric carbon in each molecule in problems $\text{18}\text{.73}$ and $\text{18}\text{.74}$ is to be identified.

Concept introduction:

The anomeric carbon is the carbon derived from the carbonyl group in the straight-chain form of the carbohydrate molecule. The one that is a part of the carbonyl group in the open-chain form is called the anomeric carbon. One anomer is designated as the $\text{α}$ anomer and the other as the $\text{β}$ anomer.

In the $\text{α}$ anomer of a cyclic monosaccharide, the anomeric $\text{OH}$ and the ${\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}\text{OH}$ substituents are trans to each other (located on opposite sides of the ring).

In the $\text{β}$ anomer, the two substituents are cis to each other (located on the same side of the ring).