Dextrorotatory
| Formula / Notation | Optical rotation: +α (clockwise); measured by polarimetry; [α]_D > 0 |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | (+)-rotation, d-rotation, clockwise optical rotation, dextrorotatory enantiomer |
What is Dextrorotatory?
A term describing an optically active compound that rotates plane-polarized light in a clockwise direction (to the right) when viewed facing the oncoming light. Designated with a (+) or d- prefix. The opposite of levorotatory.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: (+)-rotation, d-rotation, clockwise optical rotation, dextrorotatory enantiomer
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A term describing an optically active compound that rotates plane-polarized light in a clockwise direction (to the right) when viewed facing the oncoming light. Designated with a (+) or d- prefix. The opposite of levorotatory.
Optical rotation measurements (polarimetry) are used to identify and characterise chiral compounds in pharmaceuticals, food quality control (sugar analysis by saccharimetry), biochemistry (amino acid and sugar configurations), and in monitoring asymmetric synthesis reactions.
Specific rotation is a physical characterisation tool; no direct safety concern. Polarimeters typically use sodium or LED light sources. Standard laboratory safety applies. For chiral drugs, the wrong enantiomer can be pharmacologically inactive or harmful (thalidomide case).
The formula or notation for Dextrorotatory is: Optical rotation: +α (clockwise); measured by polarimetry; [α]_D > 0