What is chirality?

Sometimes two molecules can exist as non-superimposable mirror-images. That is to say, the mirror image of a molecule cannot be exactly placed on top of the original molecule.

A good example of this is your hands: they are mirror images of one another, but cannot be exactly placed on top of each other. 

Pairs of molecules that exhibit this property are known as enantiomers. When a carbon atom is bonded to four distinct groups, this is known as a chiral centre, and two enantiomers of this arrangement are seen.

PB
Answered by Patrick B. Chemistry tutor

9493 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is entropy and how is it used in chemistry?


What is a racemic mixture and why is it not optically active?


What happens to a primary secondary and tertiary alcohol when an excess solution of Potassium Dichromate is added under acidic conditions, state the chemical formula of potassium dichromate?


How does free radical substitution work?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning