Question detail
What distinguishes optical isomerism from structural isomerism?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Optical isomerism (A-level only)
Question
- A. Optical isomers have different connectivity of atoms.
- B. Optical isomers are non-superimposable mirror images.
- C. Optical isomers have the same molecular formula.
- D. Optical isomers differ in the arrangement of atoms in space.
Answer
Optical isomers are non-superimposable mirror images.
Explanation
Optical isomerism involves molecules that are mirror images of each other and cannot be superimposed, while structural isomerism involves different connectivity of atoms.
Common mistake
Identifying Chiral Carbons
Students often confuse chiral carbon atoms with any carbon atom in a molecule, not recognizing that a chiral carbon must have four different substituents.
To correctly identify chiral carbons, remember that a chiral carbon atom has four distinct groups attached to it. Examine each carbon in the molecule and ensure that all four substituents are different.
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