What is chirality?

Sometimes two molecules can exist as non-superimposable mirror-images. That is to say, the mirror image of a molecule cannot be exactly placed on top of the original molecule.

A good example of this is your hands: they are mirror images of one another, but cannot be exactly placed on top of each other. 

Pairs of molecules that exhibit this property are known as enantiomers. When a carbon atom is bonded to four distinct groups, this is known as a chiral centre, and two enantiomers of this arrangement are seen.

PB
Answered by Patrick B. Chemistry tutor

9002 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

The recommended daily allowance of methionine for an adult is 15 mg per kg of body mass. Tuna contains 755 mg of methionine per 100 g portion. Calculate the mass, in grams, of tuna that would provide the RDA of methionine for a 60 kg adult.


Describe the structure of benzene, and how this affects its stability.


State and explain the difference in base strength between phenylamine and ammonia.


State the relative charge and relative mass of a proton, of a neutron and of an electron. In terms of particles, explain the relationship between two isotopes of the same element. Explain why these isotopes have identical chemical properties.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning