Question
Question: The provided image shows a stereoisomer of a cyclobutane derivative. Analyze the structure and its p...
The provided image shows a stereoisomer of a cyclobutane derivative. Analyze the structure and its properties.
The molecule is trans-cyclobutane-1,2-diol and is optically active.
The molecule is cis-cyclobutane-1,2-diol and is optically active.
The molecule is cis-cyclobutane-1,2-diol and is optically inactive (meso compound).
The molecule is trans-cyclobutane-1,2-diol and is optically inactive.
The molecule is cis-cyclobutane-1,2-diol and is optically inactive (meso compound).
Solution
The given structure represents cis-cyclobutane-1,2-diol. The two hydroxyl (-OH) groups are depicted with wedge bonds, indicating they are on the same side (cis) of the cyclobutane ring. This molecule possesses a plane of symmetry that bisects the bond between C1 and C2 and passes through C3 and C4. Due to this plane of symmetry, the molecule is a meso compound, which is achiral and therefore optically inactive.