Which of the following compounds could be meso compounds?
a. 2-bromo-4-chloropentane
b. 2,5-dimethylheptane
c. 2,4-dimethylpentane
d. 4,6-dichlorononane
C and D have a plane of symmetry,they are both meso.
To determine which of the given compounds could be meso compounds, we need to understand what a meso compound is. A meso compound is a molecule that exhibits internal symmetry, even though it may have chiral centers. By definition, a meso compound must have at least two chiral centers.
Now, let's analyze each compound to see if it fits the criteria:
a. 2-bromo-4-chloropentane: This compound has multiple chiral centers but doesn't possess internal symmetry, as the bromine and chlorine substituents are different. Therefore, it cannot be a meso compound.
b. 2,5-dimethylheptane: This compound lacks any chiral centers, so it cannot be a meso compound.
c. 2,4-dimethylpentane: This compound has one chiral center, but no internal symmetry. Therefore, it cannot be a meso compound.
d. 4,6-dichlorononane: This compound has multiple chiral centers but doesn't possess internal symmetry, as the chlorine substituents are different. Therefore, it cannot be a meso compound.
Based on this analysis, none of the given compounds can be classified as meso compounds as they don't meet the criteria of having internal symmetry despite having chiral centers.