Chapter 4: Q38 P (page 166)
The following compound has only one asymmetric centre. Why then does it have four stereoisomers?
Short Answer
Expert verified
The molecule has a cis and trans isomer due to the double bond. The chemical also possesses an asymmetric centre, which means that the cis isomer can form a pair of enantiomers, and the trans isomer can likewise form a pair of enantiomers.
Step by step solution
01
Definition of asymmetric centre-
A symmetric carbon atom is one that comprises four separate atoms or groups of atoms (substituents) bound to it in an organic complex.
It is denoted by an astric (*) symbol.
02
The molecule has a cis and trans isomer due to the double bond.
03
The chemical also possesses an asymmetric centre, which means that the cis isomer can form a pair of enantiomers, and the trans isomer can likewise form a pair of enantiomers.
Therefore, there are 4 stereoisomers of the given compound.
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