What is an optical isomer?

An optical isomer is when a molecule has a 'non-superimposable mirror image'. This means that if you draw out its reflection, it is not the same as the original. A good example in daily life would be feet - they are mirror images of eachother but your left foot is clearly different from your right foot - so you can't put your right foot in your left shoe. The same happens with molecules.A standard example a A Level is that any carbon with 4 different groups attached is an optical isomer. If you draw out it's mirror image, you can see that the two are actually different. (Here I would get them to draw it out and confirm it for themselves - resorting to building 3D molecules if necessary).

Answered by Polly-Isobel S. Chemistry tutor

1624 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is Effective Nuclear Charge?


Explain the trend in reactivity of group 2 elements with water as you go down the group.


The Haber process is used to manufacture ammonia. Explain the optimum conditions for this reaction and why these conditions may not be used in industry


What is the definition of a H-Bond?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences