Question

$\text{2-chlorobutane} + \text{Cl}_2 \rightarrow \text{C}_4\text{H}_8\text{Cl}_2 \, (\text{isomers})$
$\text{Total number of optically active isomers shown by} \, \text{C}_4\text{H}_8\text{Cl}_2, \, \text{obtained in the above reaction is} \, \_\_\_\_\_\_.$

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 6

Reaction of 2-chlorobutane with chlorine (Cl₂) under light (Cl₂/hv) produces multiple C₄H₈Cl₂ isomers via hydrogen substitution at various sites.

The number of optically active isomers is determined as follows:

Various structural isomers of C₄H₈Cl₂ are generated based on chlorine substitution position. Chirality arises in some isomers from chiral centers (carbon atoms linked to four distinct groups).

Six of the potential isomers possess chiral centers, rendering them optically active. These can exist as enantiomers (mirror images), enhancing their optical activity.

The reaction yields a total of 6 optically active isomers.