Chapter 4, Problem 29P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The compound $\text{2,3-pentanediol and 2,4-pentanediol}$ are to be compared with respect to the number of stereoisomers possible for each and chiral and achiral isomers are to be identified.

Concept Introduction:

An asymmetrical carbon atom attached to four different atoms or groups is called a chirality center.

A molecule having at least one chiral center is chiral molecule.

If a molecule having a chiral carbon atom contains a plane of symmetry or a center of symmetry, then it becomes achiral.