Question

What is the number of chiral carbon atoms in 2-chlorobutane?

• A. \(4\)
• B. \(3\)
• C. \(2\)
• D. \(1\)

Hint:

A chiral carbon has four different groups attached; check each carbon of CH3CHClCH2CH3.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Rule:
Look for a carbon bonded to four different substituents.

Step 2: Apply:
Only the carbon bearing chlorine is attached to H, Cl, methyl and ethyl. All other carbons carry two or three identical hydrogens.

Step 3: Result:
One chiral centre, which gives two optical isomers. The answer is (D).

Final Answer:
Option (D), 1. \[ \boxed{\text{(D) } 1} \]