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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements best describes chirality in organic molecules?
A
Chirality is the phenomenon where molecules have the same molecular formula but different connectivity of atoms.
B
Chirality occurs when a carbon atom is bonded to four different substituents, resulting in non-superimposable mirror images.
C
Chirality refers to a molecule's ability to rotate plane-polarized light.
D
Chirality is the property of a molecule having a plane of symmetry.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of chirality: Chirality in organic chemistry refers to the geometric property of a molecule having a non-superimposable mirror image, much like left and right hands.
Identify the key feature of chiral molecules: A chiral molecule typically has a carbon atom bonded to four different substituents, known as a chiral center or stereocenter.
Differentiate chirality from other concepts: Chirality is distinct from isomerism, which involves molecules with the same molecular formula but different connectivity or arrangement of atoms.
Recognize the optical activity of chiral molecules: Chiral molecules can rotate plane-polarized light, a property used to study and identify chiral substances.
Clarify the misconception about symmetry: Chiral molecules do not have a plane of symmetry, which is why their mirror images are non-superimposable.