Distinguish between D and L isomers.
A) D is right handed and L is left handed.
B) D is left handed and L is right handed.
C) D and L only differ in the position of one chiral center.
D) D is the boat conformation and L is the chair conformation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

D and L isomers are distinguished based on the direction in which they rotate polarized light. In general, D isomers rotate polarized light to the right (clockwise), while L isomers rotate polarized light to the left (counterclockwise). This is due to their different spatial arrangements of substituent groups around their chiral centers. Therefore, option A, which states that D is right handed and L is left handed, is the best choice. Option B is incorrect because it states the opposite of the correct orientation for D and L isomers. Option C is partially correct as D and L isomers differ in the spatial orientation of all chiral centers, not just one. Option D is incorrect as it refers to different conformations or shapes of molecules, not isomers.

Distinguish Between D and L Isomers