question_answer

In this reaction:            [AIPMT 2003]

\[C{{H}_{3}}CHO+HCN\xrightarrow[{}]{{}}C{{H}_{3}}CH(OH)CN\]\[\xrightarrow{H.OH}C{{H}_{3}}CH(OH)COOH\] an asymmetric centre is generated.

The acid obtained would be:

A) 50% D + 50% L-isomer              

B) 20% D + 80% L-isomer

C) D-isomer                                   

D) L-isomer           

Correct Answer: A

Solution :

[a] Lactice acid obtained in the given reaction is an optically active compound due to the presence of chiral C-atom. It exits as d and \[l\] forms whose ratio is 1 : 1.