Other Techniques - MCAT Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems

Card 1 of 24

0
Didn't Know
Knew It
0
1 of 2019 left
Question

Which of the following properties can be used to differentiate between enantiomers?

Tap to reveal answer

Answer

Chiral molecules are a unique type of isomer, defined as two molecules with inverted stereochemistry, which makes them mirror images of one another. These isomers will ahve the same molecular weight, as well as most physical properties. Enatiomers cannot be distinguished based on melting point, heat of vaporization, or density. The primary, defining characteristic of a chiral molecule is its ability to effect plane polarized light. One isomer will rotate the light to the right, while the other will rotate the light to the left.

← Didn't Know|Knew It →