Organic Chemistry · Chapter 2: Isomers

Question

To determine the absolute configuration at a chiral center:
1. ____.

Answer

To determine the absolute configuration at a chiral center:
1. Assign priority by atomic number.
2. Arrange the molecule with the lowest-priority substituent in the back (or invert the stereochemistry by switching two substituents).
3. Draw a circle around the molecule from highest to lowest priority (1 to 2 to 3)
4. Name the molecule accordingly: Clockwise = (R); counterclockwise = (S).
To determine the absolute configuration at a chiral center: 1. Assign priority by atomic number. 2. Arrange the molecul…
Note: Chirality can also be thought of as handedness. In fact, one of the easiest visualizations of chirality is to think of your own hands, as shown in Figure 2.9. Although essentially identical, your left hand will not be able to fit into a right-handed glove.
Note: A simple 180° rotation around a vertical axis, as shown in Figure 2.11, allows the compound to be superimposed upon its mirror image.
Note: For example, the C-1 carbon atom in 1-bromo-1-chloroethane has four different substituents. As shown in Figure 2.10, this molecule is chiral because it is not superimposable on its mirror image.

Keep this card coming back until it sticks

Sign up free and spaced repetition will bring Chapter 2: Isomers cards back right before you forget them.

Continue studying — sign up free

More cards in Chapter 2: Isomers

← All cards in Chapter 2: Isomers