Under the strict application of the Cahn-Ingold-Prelog (CIP) sequence rules for assigning E/Z config — Isomerism and Stereochemistry Chemistry Question
Question
Under the strict application of the Cahn-Ingold-Prelog (CIP) sequence rules for assigning E/Z configurations, which of the following isotopic groups possesses the absolute highest priority?
Answer: C
💡 Solution & Explanation
CIP priority is primarily determined by the atomic number of the directly attached atom. However, if the atoms are identical isotopes of the exact same element (like H, D, and T), CIP Rule 2 dictates that atomic mass acts as the definitive tie-breaker. Because Tritium ($T$, mass 3) is heavier than Deuterium ($D$, mass 2) and Hydrogen ($H$, mass 1), the priority order is strictly $-T > -D > -H$.
💬Ask on WhatsApp →
Still have doubts about this question?
Send it to our AI chemistry tutor on WhatsApp — gets answered in minutes