Enantimers vs Chiral
Chiral recognition involves distinguishing between the two mirror-image forms (enantiomers) of a chiral molecule. Since enantiomers share identical physical properties, separating them can be challenging. However, their discrimination becomes possible through interactions with a selective secondary species, revealing subtle physical differences.
The structural basis for enantiomerism is termed chirality. Enantiomers, existing as non-superimposable mirror images, are chemically identical in all other aspects. They are differentiated by their ability to rotate polarized light, either dextrorotatory (+) or levorotatory (-), in solution, leading to the designation as optical isomers.
In equal proportions, enantiomers form a racemic mixture, devoid of polarized light rotation, as the optical activities of each enantiomer cancel each other out.
Following are the differences between Enantiomers and Chiral based on characteristics:
|
Characteristic |
Enantiomers |
Chiral |
|---|---|---|
|
Definition |
Enantiomers are a specific type of stereoisomer that are mirror images of each other and non-superimposable. |
Chiral refers to a molecule or an object that is not superimposable on its mirror image, possessing a non-superimposable mirror image. |
|
Chirality |
Enantiomers are inherently chiral molecules. |
Chirality is a property that can be attributed to molecules, objects, or even certain atomic centers within molecules. |
|
Mirror Image |
Enantiomers are mirror images with opposite configurations. |
The term chiral refers to any object or molecule that cannot be superimposed onto its mirror image. |
|
Superimposability |
Enantiomers are non-superimposable. |
Chiral objects or molecules are non-superimposable on their mirror images. |
|
Optical Activity |
Enantiomers rotate plane-polarized light equally but in opposite directions. |
Chiral substances may exhibit optical activity, but this is not exclusive to enantiomers. |
|
CIP Configuration |
Described using R and S configurations in the Cahn-Ingold-Prelog system. |
The concept of chirality is described more broadly, encompassing objects or molecules with non-superimposable mirror images. |
Related Resources
Enantiomers
Enantiomers are pairs of molecules with identical chemical composition but non-superimposable mirror images. They exhibit different optical activities and interact uniquely with polarized light. Their distinctive spatial arrangements around chiral centers result in unique properties, notably in their interaction with light.
In this article, we will learn about the definition of an enantiomer, its properties, various examples of enantiomers, and the difference between enantiomers, chirality, stereoisomers, and diastereomers.
Table of Content
- What are Enantiomers?
- Structure of Enantiomers
- Chirality and Stereochemistry
- R and S Enantiomer
- Enantiomers vs Stereoisomers