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Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules is chiral?
A
2-butanol
B
2-propanol
C
ethanol
D
acetone
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the concept of chirality: A molecule is chiral if it has a non-superimposable mirror image, often due to the presence of a carbon atom bonded to four different groups.
Examine the structure of 2-butanol: It has the formula \( \text{CH}_3\text{CH(OH)CH}_2\text{CH}_3 \). The central carbon (second carbon) is bonded to four different groups: a hydroxyl group (OH), a methyl group (CH3), an ethyl group (CH2CH3), and a hydrogen atom (H).
Analyze 2-propanol: It has the formula \( \text{CH}_3\text{CHOHCH}_3 \). The central carbon is bonded to two identical methyl groups (CH3), a hydroxyl group (OH), and a hydrogen atom (H), making it achiral.
Consider ethanol: It has the formula \( \text{CH}_3\text{CH}_2\text{OH} \). The carbon atoms are bonded to identical groups, making it achiral.
Evaluate acetone: It has the formula \( \text{CH}_3\text{COCH}_3 \). The central carbon is bonded to two identical methyl groups (CH3) and an oxygen atom (O), making it achiral.