Which of the following compounds are capable of being resolved into enantiomers?
(g)
(h)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of enantiomers. Enantiomers are stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other. For a compound to be resolved into enantiomers, it must be chiral, meaning it lacks a plane of symmetry and has a stereogenic center (a carbon atom bonded to four different groups).
2. Step 2: Analyze compound (g). Identify if it contains a stereogenic center by examining each carbon atom and checking if it is bonded to four different groups. If a stereogenic center is present and the molecule lacks symmetry, it is chiral and can be resolved into enantiomers.
3. Step 3: Analyze compound (h). Similarly, check for the presence of a stereogenic center and determine if the molecule is chiral by ensuring it lacks a plane of symmetry. If these conditions are met, the compound can also be resolved into enantiomers.
4. Step 4: Consider any additional factors that might affect chirality, such as the presence of double bonds, rings, or meso compounds (which are achiral despite having stereogenic centers due to an internal plane of symmetry).
5. Step 5: Conclude whether each compound (g) and (h) is capable of being resolved into enantiomers based on the analysis of chirality and the presence of stereogenic centers.

Key Concepts

Enantiomers

Enantiomers are a type of stereoisomer that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other. They typically arise in chiral molecules, which possess at least one chiral center, usually a carbon atom bonded to four different substituents. The presence of enantiomers is crucial in organic chemistry, particularly in the context of pharmaceuticals, as they can exhibit different biological activities.

Chirality

Chirality refers to the geometric property of a molecule that makes it non-superimposable on its mirror image. A chiral molecule has at least one chiral center, which is often a carbon atom bonded to four distinct groups. Understanding chirality is essential for determining whether a compound can exist as enantiomers and for predicting the behavior of these compounds in biological systems.

Resolution of Enantiomers

Resolution of enantiomers is the process of separating a racemic mixture (a 1:1 mixture of enantiomers) into its individual enantiomers. This can be achieved through various methods, such as crystallization, chromatography, or using chiral reagents. The ability to resolve enantiomers is important in organic synthesis and drug development, as the different enantiomers can have distinct pharmacological effects.