Isomerism and StereochemistryhardMCQ SINGLE

Even in the complete structural absence of any standard chiral hybridized carbon atoms, appropriatelIsomerism and Stereochemistry Chemistry Question

Question

Even in the complete structural absence of any standard chiral $sp^3$ hybridized carbon atoms, appropriately substituted even-cumulenes (such as allene derivatives) routinely exhibit robust optical isomerism. What defines the explicit structural basis for their unique molecular chirality?

Answer: A

💡 Solution & Explanation

In an even-cumulene system (like an allene, $>C=C=C<$), the central carbon atom utilizes two mutually perpendicular, unhybridized p-orbitals to form the two adjacent pi bonds. This strict quantum mechanical requirement forcefully locks the substituent groups on the terminal $sp^2$ carbons into orthogonal (perpendicular) planes. If each terminal carbon possesses two different groups, the molecule wholly lacks any plane or center of symmetry, rendering it axially chiral.

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