If the specific rotation of the (R)-enantiomer of a compound is -4.8^o, what will the specific rotation be for a racemic mixture of the compound? A) +4.8^o B) -4.8^o C) 0⁰ D) There is no way to tell.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The specific rotation of a racemic mixture of enantiomers is always zero because the rotations of the two enantiomers cancel each other out. Therefore, the specific rotation of this compound in a racemic mixture would be 0⁰.

If the Specific Rotation of the (R)-Enantiomer of a Compound