Optical isomers Flashcards
1
Q
What type of isomers is optical isomers?
A
stereoisomers
2
Q
Define stereoisomers
A
Same structural formula but different arrangement of atoms in space
3
Q
What are optical isomers?
A
Non-superimposable mirror images
4
Q
When can optical isomers exist?
A
When carbon atoms bond to four different groups
5
Q
How are optical isomers distinguished?
A
Rotate the plane of polarised light in opposite directions
6
Q
What is a racemic mixture?
A
A mixture containing equal amounts of enantiomers. Not optically active
7
Q
What is optically active?
A
Rotate the plane of polarised light
8
Q
Enantiomer
A
One pair of optical isomers
9
Q
Chiral
A
A molecule which exists as a pair of optical isomers
10
Q
Stereogenic centre
Asymmetric centre
Chiral centre
A
Carbon with four different groups attached
