Fundamentals of Organic ChemistryChemistryGeneral Organic Chemistry
Which of the following molecules are chiral? (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v)
Options
- A(ii) and (v)
- B(ii) only
- C(i), (ii) and (iv)
- D(ii), (iv) and (v)
Correct answer
A. (ii) and (v)
Step-by-step solution
To determine which molecules are chiral, we examine each structure for chiral centers and elements of symmetry (such as a plane or center of symmetry). Molecule (i) is cis-4-methylcyclohexan-1-ol. It has a plane of symmetry passing through the C1 and C4 carbons, which bisects the molecule into two identical halves. Therefore, it is achiral. Molecule (ii) is trans-3-methylcyclohexan-1-amine. It lacks any plane of symmetry or center of inversion. Its mirror image is non-superimposable. Therefore, it is chiral. Molecu