Chapter 22, Problem 91A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To explain the nature of two enantiomers in medication.

Concept Introduction: Stereoisomers in which all the four groups on a carbon atom are different, thus enantiomers exist. This carbon is therefore termed an asymmetric carbon atom.

The pair of molecules that are mirror images of each other and are not superimposable are known as enantiomers.

Answer to Problem 91A

In terms of medicine, both enantiomers behave differently as the living system is chiral in nature, and chirality plays a major role in enantiomers.

Explanation of Solution

In the case of limonene, there exist two enantiomers. The chemical as well physical properties of enantiomers are identical to each other. They only differ in the direction of plane-polarized light, taste, biological activity, and rate of reaction with different chiral reagents.

The right-handed limonene has a similar smell to that of orange while the left-handed limonene has a similar smell to pine trees. The other properties such as color, density as well as boiling point remain identical for both enantiomers.

The living systems are chiral in nature, both enantiomers behave differently in vivo. Most of the drugs that are found in nature are chiral, and only the biologically active enantiomer will synthesize.

Thus, the right-handed enantiomer behaves differently than the left-handed enantiomer.

Conclusion

In terms of medicine, both enantiomers behave differently as the living system is chiral in nature, and chirality plays a major role in enantiomers.