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

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain how the electron pair repulsion theory can be used to deduce the shape of, and the bond angle in, NH3.


What is the difference of SN1 and an SN2 mechanism?


A solution of ethanoic acid is made by dissolving 3g of pure liquid propanoic acid in 500cm^3 water. Given the pH of the solution is 2.98, calculate Ka.


Name the type of reaction and outline the mechanism for the reaction of the alcohol (CH3)2CHOH with the acyl chloride CH3COCl. Explain which orbitals take part in the reaction.