- #1
Nick tringali
- 71
- 13
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SUMMARY
The discussion centers on the concept of enantiomers in stereochemistry, specifically addressing the misconception that two molecules can be identical when they are, in fact, enantiomers. Participants emphasize the importance of using molecular modeling kits or visualization software to better understand the three-dimensional representations of these molecules. Key points include the inability to rotate enantiomers into one another without altering their spatial configuration, which is crucial for recognizing their distinct properties.
PREREQUISITES- Understanding of stereochemistry concepts
- Familiarity with enantiomers and stereoisomers
- Knowledge of molecular modeling tools
- Basic principles of 3D molecular visualization
- Explore molecular modeling kits for hands-on learning
- Research free molecular visualization software options
- Study the differences between enantiomers and diastereomers
- Learn about the significance of chirality in organic chemistry
Chemistry students, educators, and researchers interested in stereochemistry, particularly those seeking to deepen their understanding of molecular structures and enantiomeric relationships.
- #2
TeethWhitener
Science Advisor
Gold Member
- 2,630
- 2,244
Get a hold of a good molecular modeling kit or a visualization program (there are a few good free ones online). It’s a lot easier to wrap your head around stereoisomers when you can play with the 3D representations of molecules.
- #3
snorkack
- 2,388
- 536
No, they are not.Nick tringali said:
Even without getting a model - how can you flip them around one into another?
You cannot rotate it around horizontal axis - because this would flip the M-shaped carbon backbone into W. So the rotation which leaves the pentane backbone unchanged M would be the rotation around vertical axis.
But what happens to the hydroxyls then?
The upper form starts off having the left, say 2 hydroxyl group towards viewer and the right, then 4 hydroxyl group away from viewer.
When you flip the sheet, the 2-hydroxyl group will be on the right... but because you are now looking at it from the opposite side of sheet, it is now away from you. So you again have the left hydroxyl (now 4) towards you and the right hydroxyl away from you. The molecule is NOT converted to the form below where the left hydroxyl is away from you and right hydroxyl towards you.
Which is why they are enantiomers.
- #4
Mayhem
- 425
- 317
When you flip these mentally, you have to think of it as you are flipping a page of a book, not simply interchange the groups.