Chapter 13, Problem 13.51UTC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Chiral: Molecules that are non-superimposable to their mirror image, has no symmetry either point of symmetry, line of symmetry or plane of symmetry. It has a chiral carbon; chiral carbon is that carbon which is attached to four different groups is said to be a chiral carbon, or chiral center.

Achiral: Molecules whose mirror images are superimposable to each other. They have symmetry.

Concept introduction:

Simple rule to identify chiral center: It is that tetrahedral bonded carbon, where all four substituents are different. This carbon is also known as stereocenter.

Answer to Problem 13.51UTC

Solution:

  $\left(a\right)$ Glycerol: achiral

  $\left(b\right)$ Monosodium glutamate: Chiral carbon

Explanation of Solution

  $\left(a\right)$

Indicated carbon is connected with two identical groups, so it is achiral carbon.

  $\left(b\right)$

Monosodium glutamate $\left(MSG\right)$

Indicated carbon in connected with four different groups/atoms as indicated, so it is chiral carbon.