Finding Stereoisomers
Chemistry
Level
4
Find out the total number of possible products (including stereo products) of the reaction above.
The answer is 16.
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1 solution
G u e s s e d s o l u t i o n :
I don't know why chemists count a 3! for only 2! for − C H ( O H ) C H 3 for its stereo isomers; probably one of them is fixed but we are usually not told of which; I therefore find that 12 is basic distinct molecules formed, added with 2 reactants (at least one in excess and another one exist by chance momentarily), N a + and water for a total of 16. Assumed that -C=O does not combined with other -C=O, 4 main molecules regardless of isomerism are formed as follows:
CH_3COCHCH_3~C(CH_3)(OH)(CH_2_CH_3) for 4 isomers;
C H 3 C O C H C H 3 − C H ( O H ) C H 3 for 4 isomers;
CHOCH_2~C(CH_3)(OH)(CH_2_CH_3) for 2 isomers;
C H O C H 2 − C H ( O H ) C H 3 for 2 isomers.
Total = 12 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 16. However, I think the question doesn't eliminate ambiguity in descriptions. Hope able to discuss.
Answer: 1 6