Is This Compound Optically Active?

3 replies · 3K views · last reply
nil1996
Messages
301
Reaction score
7

Homework Statement


Is this compound optically active or inactive??



Homework Equations

Skeletal structure of a cyclohexane ring with two CH3 groups on the same carbon at the top and a chlorine atom and hydrogen on the carbon at the bottom.




The Attempt at a Solution


This compound doesn't have the plane of symmetry.So according to me it should be optically inactive.is it right??
 
nil1996 said:
This compound doesn't have the plane of symmetry.

It doesn't?

So according to me it should be optically inactive.is it right??

What you wrote suggests lack of plane of symmetry makes the compound optically inactive. Are you sure about it?
 
So, where is the chiral atom?

I guess you should start finding out how to deal with rings...

Also remember that while the molecule is drawn flat, in fact it is not flat at all - which is especially important for carbons substituted with methyls and Cl.