MCAT Organic Chemistry Question 17: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 17

2. How many stereoisomers exist for the following aldehyde?

A. 2
B. 8
C. 9
D. 16

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

The maximum number of stereoisomers of a compound equals 2ⁿ, where n is the number of chiral carbons in the compound. In this molecule, C-1 (the aldehydic carbon) is not chiral, nor is C-5 (because it is attached to two hydrogen atoms). Therefore, with three chiral centers, there are 2³ = 8 stereoisomers.

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