Chapter 20, Problem 20.14QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The distinction of an achiral compound from racemic mixture on the basis of its optical activity is to be explained.

Concept introduction: Racemic mixture is an equimolar solution of optical isomers which rotate the plane polarized light to clockwise or anti-clockwise direction. The plane of polarized light rotated by racemic mixture is zero.

To determine: The distinction of an achiral compound from racemic mixture on the basis of its optical activity.