Isomerism and StereochemistryhardMCQ SINGLE⭐ Must-Do

Meso-tartaric acid possesses two genuine chiral centers, yet it is completely optically inactive in Isomerism and Stereochemistry Chemistry Question

Question

Meso-tartaric acid possesses two genuine chiral centers, yet it is completely optically inactive in a polarimeter. What specific molecular feature causes this phenomenon?

Answer: B

💡 Solution & Explanation

A meso compound is defined as a molecule containing multiple genuine chiral centers while remaining overall achiral. This occurs because the molecule possesses an internal element of symmetry (like a Plane of Symmetry). The optical rotation of the top half is exactly canceled by the opposite rotation of the identical bottom half.

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