See image — Isomerism and Stereochemistry Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

**Solution:** **Understanding Invert Sugar:** Invert sugar is formed by hydrolysis of sucrose (table sugar) into its two monosaccharide components: $$\text{Sucrose} \rightarrow \text{Glucose} + \text{Fructose}$$ **Key Principle:** Specific rotation is an additive property. When two optically active compounds are mixed, their rotations combine: $$[\alpha]_{\text{mixture}} = \frac{n_1[\alpha]_1 + n_2[\alpha]_2}{n_1 + n_2}$$ **Calculation:** For equimolar amounts of glucose and fructose (which form from one sucrose molecule): $$[\alpha]_{\text{invert sugar}} = \frac{[\alpha]_{\text{glucose}} + [\alpha]_{\text{fructose}}}{2}$$ $$[\alpha]_{\text{invert sugar}} = \frac{(+52°) + (-92°)}{2} = \frac{-40°}{2} = -20°$$ **Answer: (C) –72°** is incorrect based on calculation, but the **correct answer is –20°** (option A). *Note: There appears to be an error in the problem statement if option C is marked correct. The calculated value is **–20°**, making option (A) the correct answer.*