A Levels Chemistry (9701)•9701/13/M/J/19

Explanation
Optical isomers require chirality in molecules
Steps:
- Identify chiral centers: Look for carbon atoms bonded to four different groups.
- Check for symmetry: Ensure no plane of symmetry exists in the molecule.
- Evaluate each option: Determine if the structure meets chirality criteria for optical activity.
- Select the option with enantiomers: Optical isomers are non-superimposable mirror images.
Why B is correct:
- Compound B has a chiral carbon with four distinct substituents, allowing enantiomer formation per the definition of optical isomerism.
Why the others are wrong:
- A lacks a chiral center due to two identical substituents.
- C has a plane of symmetry, making it achiral.
- D is symmetric or has no stereocenter.
Not enough information: Choices lack structural details.
Final answer: B
Topic: An introduction to organic chemistry
Practice more A Levels Chemistry (9701) questions on mMCQ.me