Optical Isomer

Question 1

Chiral centres

Answer 1

Carbon atom with 4 different groups bonded so there is no line of symmetry to the molecule

Question 2

Optical isomers

Answer 2

Two possible isomers that are non-supsrimposable mirror images of each other. Two different isomers are called enantiomers and are unique due to their effect on plane polarised light. Each enantiomer causes the roatiation of plane polarised light by 90° in opposite directions.

Question 3

Racemic mixtures

Answer 3

A racemate is formed when optical isomers are produced as a pair of enantiomers in a 1:1 ratio. Optically inactive as both enantiomers equally rotate light in opposite directions.

Question 4

Nucleophilic addition to form optical isomers

Answer 4

Nucleophiles are able to attack a molecule with a carbonyl group from above or below the carbon-oxygen double bond due to the planar shape. Two mirror images are created.