A carbon atom that gives rise to optical isomerism must be attached to
Correct answer: B. four different atoms or groups
- A. two identical groups and two different ones
- B. four different atoms or groups
- C. at least one double bond
- D. three hydrogen atoms
Explanation
A carbon with four different substituents has no plane of symmetry, so its mirror image cannot be superimposed on it and the two forms are optical isomers that rotate plane polarised light in opposite directions. Such a carbon is described as chiral or asymmetric. If any two of the groups are the same, the mirror image is identical to the original and the molecule is achiral.
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About Isomerism
Isomerism occurs when compounds have the same molecular formula but different atom arrangements or spatial orientations. The content includes chain, position, functional, metameric and tautomeric isomerism, along with geometrical and optical isomerism, including cis-trans forms, E/Z notation, chirality and enantiomers.
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