Given the following molecule: $C_2{H}_5-\mathrm{CH}\left(\mathrm{Cl}\right)-\mathrm{CH}\left(\mathrm{Br}\right)-\mathrm{CH}\left(F\right)-\mathrm{CH}(\mathrm{CH}$₃)-CH3 choose the atom(s) that are chiral centers in this alkane.

• A. Only the carbon atom bonded to $\mathrm{Cl}$ is a chiral center.
• B. None of the carbon atoms in this molecule are chiral centers.
• C. The carbon atoms bonded to $\mathrm{Cl}$, $\mathrm{Br}$, and $F$ are all chiral centers.
• D. Only the terminal carbon atoms are chiral centers.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify each carbon atom in the molecule and examine the groups attached to it. A chiral center (or stereocenter) is a carbon atom bonded to four different substituents.
2. Look at the carbon bonded to Cl. It is attached to Cl, a hydrogen (implied), and two different carbon chains on either side, making it a candidate for a chiral center.
3. Next, analyze the carbon bonded to Br. Check if it has four different groups attached: Br, hydrogen, and two distinct carbon chains. If yes, it is also a chiral center.
4. Then, examine the carbon bonded to F. Similarly, verify if it has four different substituents: F, hydrogen, and two different carbon groups. If so, it is a chiral center as well.
5. Finally, check the terminal carbons (like the methyl groups) to see if they have four different groups. Typically, terminal carbons are bonded to three hydrogens and one carbon, so they are not chiral centers.