Is there a difference between meso compounds and identical compounds?

Answer 1

Meso relates to pairs of isomers that are non-chiral (despite possibly having chiral centres) and optically inactive.

Meso compounds contain one or more chiral centres, but they also have a plane of symmetry that bisects the molecule so that each side of the plane is a super imposable mirror image. This symmetry means that there is no optical activity in the molecule (even if the chiral centre/s are present).

In order to be optically active the two isomers should form non-superimposable mirror images.

Meso compounds are therefore non-chiral and optically inactive.

"Meso" comes from the Greek for "middle" (relating to the presence of the plane of symmetry that divides the structure down the middle). It is not specifically a synonym for "identical".

Sign up to view the whole answer

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Sign up with email
Answer 2

Yes, there is a difference between meso compounds and identical compounds. Meso compounds are stereoisomers that possess an internal plane of symmetry, resulting in optical inactivity despite having chiral centers. Identical compounds, on the other hand, refer to molecules that are exactly the same in terms of their structural formula and stereochemistry.

Sign up to view the whole answer

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Sign up with email
Answer from HIX Tutor

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

Not the question you need?

Drag image here or click to upload

Or press Ctrl + V to paste
Answer Background
HIX Tutor
Solve ANY homework problem with a smart AI
  • 98% accuracy study help
  • Covers math, physics, chemistry, biology, and more
  • Step-by-step, in-depth guides
  • Readily available 24/7