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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a characteristic feature of a chiral molecule in organic chemistry?
A
It is superimposable on its mirror image.
B
It contains a double bond.
C
It has a plane of symmetry.
D
It has four different substituents attached to a central carbon atom.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of chirality: A chiral molecule is one that is not superimposable on its mirror image. This is similar to how left and right hands are mirror images but cannot be perfectly aligned on top of each other.
Identify the structural feature that leads to chirality: In organic chemistry, chirality often arises from a carbon atom that is bonded to four different substituents. This carbon is known as a chiral center or stereocenter.
Evaluate the options given: A molecule that is superimposable on its mirror image is achiral, not chiral. A double bond does not inherently lead to chirality, and a plane of symmetry indicates achirality.
Focus on the correct characteristic: The presence of four different substituents attached to a central carbon atom creates a chiral center, making the molecule chiral.
Conclude with the correct feature: Therefore, the characteristic feature of a chiral molecule is having a central carbon atom with four different substituents, leading to non-superimposability on its mirror image.