How to Identify Enantiomers
Following ways helps in identifying an enantiomer:
- Molecular Structure: Examine the connectivity of atoms in compounds, focusing on the spatial arrangement.
- Chirality Centers: Identify carbon atoms bonded to four different groups, known as chiral centers, within the molecules.
- Mirror Image Test: Create a mirror image of one molecule mentally or physically. If it cannot be superimposed onto the original, they are enantiomers.
- Nomenclature: Use the Cahn-Ingold-Prelog rules to assign priority to substituents around chiral centers. Reverse sequences of priorities indicate enantiomers.
- Optical Activity: Enantiomers rotate plane-polarized light in opposite directions. Experimental observation using a polarimeter helps confirm enantiomeric relationships.
Enantiomers
Enantiomers are pairs of molecules with identical chemical composition but non-superimposable mirror images. They exhibit different optical activities and interact uniquely with polarized light. Their distinctive spatial arrangements around chiral centers result in unique properties, notably in their interaction with light.
In this article, we will learn about the definition of an enantiomer, its properties, various examples of enantiomers, and the difference between enantiomers, chirality, stereoisomers, and diastereomers.
Table of Content
- What are Enantiomers?
- Structure of Enantiomers
- Chirality and Stereochemistry
- R and S Enantiomer
- Enantiomers vs Stereoisomers