Question

Which of the following is capable of existing as a pair of enantiomers?
(A) $3 - {\text{Methylpentane}}$
(B) $3 - {\text{Methylhexane}}$
(C) $2 - {\text{Methylpentane}}$
(D) $2 - {\text{Methylpropane}}$

Answer 1

Isomers are divided into two groups called structural isomers and stereoisomers. Again stereoisomers are further classified into diastereomers and enantiomers. The distinguishing property of these two groups is the reflective symmetry of that molecule. Both diastereomers and enantiomers have different spatial configurations.

Complete step by step answer:
Diastereomers are not mere images of one another. Enantiomers are mere images of one another. Enantiomers are mirror images. The geometrical centre is called the chiral center. As enantiomers have similar spatial configuration, they have identical physical and chemical properties. They bend light in the opposite direction. The attachment of atoms is identical in enantiomers. Enantiomers have identical formulas.

From the above diagram, we can observe that $3 - {\text{methylhexane}}$ exists as a pair of enantiomers. It is optically inactive due to molecular symmetry and chiral carbon.
Therefore, option B is correct.

Note: The compounds which are not superimposable with their mirror image are said to be chiral. Compounds which are superimposable with their mirror image are said to be achiral. An atom having four different substituents around it is called a stereocenter. Stereocenter is also called a stereogenic center. Properties like solubility and melting point are the same for enantiomers. If two enantiomers are present in equal proportions then the mixture is said to be a racemic mixture. Racemic mixture does not rotate polarized light because optical activity of each enantiomer is cancelled by another enantiomer.