Stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images (enantiomers) or differ in the configuration of one or more chiral centers while having the same connectivity (diastereomers). They rotate plane-polarized light and are important in pharmaceuticals and biochemistry.
Properties & Characteristics
Optical isomers (enantiomers) are stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other, possessing chiral centres (usually a carbon atom with 4 different substituents). They rotate plane-polarised light in opposite directions (optical activity). The R/S designation (Cahn-Ingold-Prelog rules) specifies absolute configuration. Racemic mixtures (50:50 enantiomers) have zero net optical rotation. Diastereomers are stereoisomers that are not mirror images.
Uses & Applications
Optical isomers are critically important in: pharmaceuticals (enantiomeric purity required by FDA/EMA; thalidomide, ibuprofen), biochemistry (enzymes are stereospecific — L-amino acids and D-sugars), agrochemicals (single-enantiomer herbicides and insecticides), and asymmetric synthesis (producing single enantiomers using chiral catalysts).
Safety Information
The two enantiomers of a chiral drug may differ in efficacy and toxicity (eutomer vs. distomer). Racemic ibuprofen is safe (R→S conversion in vivo), but racemic thalidomide is teratogenic due to the S-(−)-enantiomer. Single-enantiomer drugs require chiral synthesis, chiral resolution, or biocatalysis — and strict chiral purity testing.
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images (enantiomers) or differ in the configuration of one or more chiral centers while having the same connectivity (diastereomers). They rotate plane-polarized light and are important in pharmaceuticals and biochemistry.
Optical isomers are critically important in: pharmaceuticals (enantiomeric purity required by FDA/EMA; thalidomide, ibuprofen), biochemistry (enzymes are stereospecific — L-amino acids and D-sugars), agrochemicals (single-enantiomer herbicides and insecticides), and asymmetric synthesis (producing s…
The two enantiomers of a chiral drug may differ in efficacy and toxicity (eutomer vs. distomer). Racemic ibuprofen is safe (R→S conversion in vivo), but racemic thalidomide is teratogenic due to the S-(−)-enantiomer. Single-enantiomer drugs require chiral synthesis, chiral resolution, or biocatalysi…
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CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA,
and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified
professionals before handling chemicals.
