Optical Isomerism
Isomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other (enantiomers) and can rotate plane-polarized light.
What is Optical Isomerism?
A type of stereoisomerism in which compounds are non-superimposable mirror images of each other and rotate plane-polarized light in opposite directions.
Key points
- Define optical isomerism in coordination compounds.
- Identify coordination compounds that can exhibit optical isomerism.
- Differentiate between enantiomers and racemic mixtures.
- Explain the concept of optical activity.
Common exam trap
Confusing optical isomerism with geometrical isomerism.
Definitions
- Term
Optical Isomerism
- Meaning
A type of stereoisomerism in which compounds are non-superimposable mirror images of each other and rotate plane-polarized light in opposite directions.
- Term
Enantiomers
- Meaning
A pair of optical isomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other.
- Term
Chirality
- Meaning
The property of a molecule or ion that makes it non-superimposable on its mirror image.
- Term
Racemic Mixture
- Meaning
An equimolar mixture of two enantiomers, which is optically inactive.
- Term
Optical Activity
- Meaning
The ability of a chiral compound to rotate the plane of plane-polarized light.
Learning objectives
Define optical isomerism in coordination compounds.
Identify coordination compounds that can exhibit optical isomerism.
Differentiate between enantiomers and racemic mixtures.
Explain the concept of optical activity.
Prerequisites
Coordination compounds
Isomerism (general)
Chirality
Types of ligands (monodentate, bidentate)
Coordination number
Geometry of complexes (octahedral, tetrahedral)
Common mistakes
Confusing optical isomerism with geometrical isomerism.
Assuming all chiral complexes are optically active (racemic mixtures are not).
Incorrectly identifying the presence or absence of a plane of symmetry.
Keywords
Optical Isomerism
Enantiomers
Chirality
Racemic Mixture
Optical Activity
Coordination Compounds
Stereoisomerism
Plane-polarized light
Practice preview
Which of the following statements about optical isomerism in coordination compounds is INCORRECT?…
hard
The complex [Co(en)₂(NH₃)₂]³⁺ exhibits optical isomerism. What type of isomerism is this?…
easy
A coordination compound with the formula [Ma₂b₂]ⁿ⁺ exhibits optical isomerism. Which of the following is true about this compound?…
medium