Consider tartaric acid, a highly symmetrical molecule possessing an EVEN number of chiral centers () — Isomerism and Stereochemistry Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

In symmetrical molecules with an even number of chiral centers ($n$), specific permutations result in conformations possessing an internal Plane of Symmetry, collapsing pairs into meso forms. The total stereoisomer count is the sum of the active forms ($2^{n-1}$) and the meso forms ($2^{(n/2 - 1)}$). Thus, Total = $2^{n-1} + 2^{(n/2 - 1)}$.