Chapter 22, Problem 17PP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The Fischer projection formulas for the given compounds, using given data are to be written.

Concept Introduction:

▸ Oxidation of aldoses by nitric acid produces optically inactive aldaric acids. This is due to the formation of meso compounds. Compounds that do not form meso structures are optically active.

▸ The Fischer projection is a way of representing biomolecules with cross formulation of the open chain structures of aldoses, such as $\text{D}-\text{Glucose}$.

▸ The Ruff degradation reaction is used for decreasing the number of carbon atoms of the respective aldoses, thereby, shortening the carbon chain of the compound. It works in two steps: 1) Using bromine water to oxidize an aldose to the respective aldonic acid and, 2) using ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$ and ${\text{Fe}}_2{{\text{(SO}}_{\text{4}}\text{)}}_{\text{3}}$ to carry out oxidative decarboxylation of the aldonic acid to a lower aldose.