See image — Isomerism and Stereochemistry Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

# Stereoisomerism Analysis **Step 1: Identify the chiral center** Both structures have a central carbon bonded to four different groups: $H$, $OH$, $CH_3$, $Br$, and $CO_2H$ — making this a chiral center. **Step 2: Assign priorities using CIP rules** For both molecules (by atomic number): - $Br$ (Z=35) → Priority **1** - $CO_2H$ (C attached to O,O,H) → Priority **2** - $CH_3$ (C attached to H,H,H) → Priority **3** - $H$ → Priority **4** **Step 3: Determine stereochemistry** **Structure 1 (left):** - Arrange with $H$ away: $Br$ (back-left), $OH$ (front-right), $CH_3$ (top), $CO_2H$ (bottom) - Path: $1 \rightarrow 2 \rightarrow 3$ = **clockwise → R-configuration** **Structure 2 (right):** - Arrange with $H$ away: $Br$ (back-right), $OH$ (front-left), $CH_3$ (top), $CO_2H$ (bottom) - Path: $1 \rightarrow 2 \rightarrow 3$ = **counterclockwise → S-configuration** **Step 4: Classification** - The molecules have identical connectivity (same molecular formula and atom attachments) - They are **non-superimposable mirror images** with opposite configurations (R vs S) - This defines **enantiomers** **Answer: (2) Enantiomers**