Open Question
Identify the D/L and R/S configuration of all of the following monosaccharides:
9. Carbohydrates
Monosaccharide Configurations
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How many possible epimers of D-glucose exist?
A
1
B
2
C
4
D
6
E
8
F
16
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of epimers: Epimers are stereoisomers that differ in configuration at only one stereogenic center. In the case of D-glucose, we need to identify the number of stereogenic centers.
Identify the stereogenic centers in D-glucose: D-glucose is an aldohexose, which means it has six carbon atoms, with the aldehyde group at the first carbon. The stereogenic centers are located at carbons 2, 3, 4, and 5.
Determine the number of possible epimers: Since epimers differ at only one stereogenic center, and D-glucose has four stereogenic centers, there are four possible epimers of D-glucose.
Consider the structure of D-glucose: The structure provided shows the arrangement of hydroxyl groups around the stereogenic centers. Each epimer will have a different configuration at one of these centers.
Conclude the analysis: Based on the identification of stereogenic centers and the definition of epimers, there are four possible epimers of D-glucose, each differing at one of the four stereogenic centers.
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