Why are optical isomers not found for #CH_2ClBr#?

In general, an achiral carbon center is one that is NOT bound to four different substituents. If you cannot see it on paper, create a model.

Optical isomers are not found for CH2ClBr because it lacks a chiral center. In order for a molecule to exhibit optical isomerism, it must have a chiral center, meaning it is attached to four different groups. CH2ClBr does not have this arrangement, as it has two hydrogen atoms attached to one of its carbon atoms, making it achiral.

Optical isomers, also known as enantiomers, occur when a molecule contains chiral centers, which are carbon atoms bonded to four different groups. In the case of CH2ClBr, there are no chiral centers present. Each carbon atom is bonded to two hydrogen atoms and one halogen atom (either chlorine or bromine). Since there are no four different substituents attached to any carbon atom, the molecule lacks chirality, and therefore, optical isomers are not found for CH2ClBr.