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A compound has the molecular formula C₂H₃Cl - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 12 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 12
A compound has the molecular formula C₂H₃Cl. Which type of chemical analysis would be most useful in determining whether this compound has a stereoisomer? A. mass sp... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A compound has the molecular formula C₂H₃Cl - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 12 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which type of chemical analysis would be most useful in determining whether this compound has a stereoisomer?
Answer
To determine whether a compound has a stereoisomer, the most effective method of analysis is nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR).
Explanation
NMR spectroscopy is particularly useful for identifying the arrangement of atoms within a molecule and distinguishing between stereoisomers. This is because NMR can provide detailed information about the environment of specific nuclei (most commonly hydrogen or carbon) in the molecule, which can differ between stereoisomers.
Other Methods:
- Mass Spectrometry: While it is useful for determining the molecular weight and structure of a compound, it does not provide information about spatial arrangement.
- Infra-red Spectroscopy: This technique helps identify functional groups but does not directly indicate stereochemistry.
- High-performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC): This method can separate compounds but does not necessarily indicate the presence of stereoisomers without further analysis.
Therefore, the best choice is D. nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.