Chapter 3, Problem 1SQ

One isomer of methamphetamine is the addictive illegal drug known as “crank.” Another isomer is a medicine for sinus congestion. How can you explain the differing effects of the two isomers?

Summary Introduction

To explain:

The differing effects of the two isomers of methamphetamine. One of the isomer is an illegal drug called as crank and the other one is a medicine for sinus congestion.

Introduction:

Isomers are the molecules that consist of same molecular formula, however they have different structures.

Explanation of Solution

The molecules possess different shapes and so, their structures are very important. If there is occurrence of even a smaller variation in the structure or the arrangement of atoms, then the isomers differ in their properties. Methamphetamine is known as a stimulating drug and is also known as crystal meth. It is legally used occasionally for the treatment of ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder). This drug is an addictive drug and is known as crank, in its smoked form.

Another isomer of this drug is used for treating the sinus congestions in people. As these two isomers are of the same compound, they function differently. The reason for their differing functions is their shapes. It is due to the shapes or conformations of a molecule or isomers that their functions differ because due to the alternating shapes, the properties of the molecules differ and hence their functions.