Chirality

Question 1

Chiral Carbon

Answer 1

Carbon attached to four different atoms and/of functional groups.

Question 2

Enantiomer

Answer 2

Pair of molecules that are mirror images of one another (but cannot be superimposed)

Question 3

Diastersomer

Answer 3

Pair of compounds with same molecular formula and sequence of bonded elements but are spatially arranged differently. (not superimposable or mirror images of one another) (Change some Chiral Center)

Question 4

Constitutional Isomer

Answer 4

Isomer with same atoms but are bonded differently.

Question 5

Why does Chirality matter?

Answer 5

“Life is Chiral”; All biology cares about enantiomer.

This includes smell, taste, and some medications/drugs. Cells are mostly comprised of chiral molecules, as well.

D & L chiral isomers have different physiological affects, as well.