Chapter 21, Problem 30P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The existence of enantiomeric forms of the given compound is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The molecules that are nonsuperimposable or not identical with their mirror images are known as chiral molecules.

A pair of two mirror images that are nonidentical is known as enantiomers, which are optically active.

The objects or molecules that are superimposable with their mirror images are achiral objects or molecules and these objects have a centre of symmetry or plane of symmetry.

The achiral compounds in which plane of symmetry is present internally and consists of chiral centres are known as meso compounds but they are optically inactive.

The stereoisomers that are nonsuperimposable on each other and not mirror images of each other are known as diastereomers.

Chiral molecules are capable of rotating plane polarized light

The molecules that are superimposable or identical with their mirror images are known as achiral molecules, and achiral molecules are not capable of rotating the plane-polarised light.

Enantiomers are pairs of compounds that are nonsuperimposable mirror images of each other.

The compounds having a plane of symmetry do not exhibit enantiomeric forms.