Question

In this reaction, $CH _{3} CHO + HCN \rightarrow CH _{3} CH ( OH ) CN$ $\stackrel{\text { H.OH }}{\longrightarrow} CH _{3} CH ( OH ) COOH$ an asymmetric centre is generated. The acid obtained would be

• A. 50% D + 50% L-isomer
• B. 20% D + 80% L-isomer
• C. D-isomer
• D. L-isomer

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

50% D + 50% L-isomer

Answer 2

The correct answer is A:50%D+50%L-isomer
Lactic acid obtained in the given reaction is an optically active compound due to the presence of chiral C-atom. It exists as d and l-forms whose ratio is 1 : 1.