If the limonene reactant described in question 2 is composed of a single enantiomer, how many stereoisomers of the product will be formed in the reaction? If there are more than one stereoisomers what would their relationship be?

Question 2: Suppose a student is measuring the optical rotation of a 1 M sample of (S)-(-)-Limonene.
The path length is 13cm. What optical rotation should the student expect to measure? --> -158.73

To determine the number of stereoisomers of the product formed in the reaction, we need to understand the reaction itself and the stereochemistry involved.

Since the reactant described is a single enantiomer, it means it has only one chiral center and exists as a pure enantiomer. In this case, (S)-(-)-limonene is the reactant.

To determine the number of stereoisomers of the product, we need to consider the possible reactions that can occur at the chiral center during the reaction. If the chiral center remains unchanged or if it can undergo stereoisomeric changes (such as inversion or retention of configuration), we will have different stereoisomers.

However, without knowing the specific reaction being carried out by the student, it is difficult to determine the exact number of stereoisomers formed.

Assuming the reaction proceeds via a mechanism that does not change the stereochemistry at the chiral center, and no other chiral centers are formed, the reaction would result in only one stereoisomer of the product. This is because the reactant is a single enantiomer and retains its stereochemistry throughout the reaction.

On the other hand, if the reaction involves a change in stereochemistry at the chiral center (such as inversion or retention), then a mixture of stereoisomers would be formed. The specific relationship between these stereoisomers would depend on the reaction mechanism and conditions. They could be diastereomers, enantiomers, or a mixture of both.

To determine the exact number and relationship of the stereoisomers formed, you would need to provide additional information about the reaction and its mechanism.