Enantiomers — Definition, Formula, Properties & Uses | AllChemicals | AllChemicals

Q: What is the formula for Enantiomers?

The formula or notation for Enantiomers is: Non-superimposable mirror images; [α]_D equal magnitude, opposite sign

Formula / Notation	Non-superimposable mirror images; [α]_D equal magnitude, opposite sign
Also Known As	Optical isomers (older term), enantiomorphs, mirror image isomers, chiral pair

What is Enantiomers?

Stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other. They have identical physical and chemical properties in achiral environments but differ in their rotation of plane-polarized light. Enantiomers can have dramatically different biological activities.

Formula & Notation

Non-superimposable mirror images; [α]_D equal magnitude, opposite sign

Other Names / Synonyms: Optical isomers (older term), enantiomorphs, mirror image isomers, chiral pair

Properties & Characteristics

Enantiomers are a pair of stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other, related as left and right hands (chiral molecules). They have identical physical properties (boiling point, solubility, density) and the same achiral chemical reactivity, but rotate plane-polarised light in opposite directions (optical activity). They can differ dramatically in biological activity (pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, toxicity) due to chiral protein interactions.

Uses & Applications

Enantiomers are critical in drug development: ibuprofen (S-(+) is active), thalidomide (R-(+) sedative, S-(−) teratogenic), L-amino acids in proteins. Asymmetric synthesis and chiral resolution produce enantiopure compounds. Chiral stationary phase HPLC separates enantiomers for analysis and production.

Safety Information

The wrong enantiomer of a chiral drug can be pharmacologically inactive or highly toxic (thalidomide case). Chiral purity must be established for pharmaceuticals by regulatory agencies. Chiral chemical weapons (some nerve agents are racemic but one enantiomer is more toxic) highlight the importance of enantiomer characterisation.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Enantiomers

Formula Non-superimposable mirror images; [α]_D equal magnitude, opposite sign

Index All "E" terms

Synonyms Optical isomers (older term), enantiomorphs, mirror image isomers, chiral pair

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Enantiomers?

Stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other. They have identical physical and chemical properties in achiral environments but differ in their rotation of plane-polarized light. Enantiomers can have dramatically different biological activities.

What is Enantiomers used for?

Is Enantiomers hazardous?

What is the formula for Enantiomers?

More "E" Terms

Effective Collisions Effective Collisions E ≥ Ea (activation energy required) Effective Molality m_eff = i × m (van't Hoff factor) Effective Nuclear Charge Z_eff = Z − σ (Slater's rules) Efflorescence Hydrated salt losing water in air: M·nH₂O(s) → M·(n-x)H₂O(s) + xH₂O(g) Einsteinium Es Electrical Conductivity κ = 1/ρ; Λm = κ/c Electrochemical Cell Galvanic cell: ΔG = −nFE_cell; Electrolytic cell: ΔG = +nFE_applied Electrochemical Series Arranged by E° (standard reduction potential); SHE: E° = 0.00 V Electrochemistry E° cell = E° cathode − E° anode | ΔG° = −nFE° Electrochemistry Electrode

View all "E" terms →