2-pentene has two geometric isomers: cis-2-pentene and trans-2-pentene.
Questions & Step-by-step Solutions
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Q
Q: How many stereoisomers can 2-pentene have?
Solution: 2-pentene has two geometric isomers: cis-2-pentene and trans-2-pentene.
Steps: 5
Step 1: Understand what stereoisomers are. Stereoisomers are compounds that have the same molecular formula and connectivity of atoms but differ in the arrangement of atoms in space.
Step 2: Identify the structure of 2-pentene. 2-pentene is an alkene with a double bond between the second and third carbon atoms.
Step 3: Recognize that the double bond in 2-pentene can create different spatial arrangements. This is because the groups attached to the double-bonded carbons can be arranged differently.
Step 4: Determine the possible arrangements. For 2-pentene, the two main arrangements are when the same groups are on the same side of the double bond (cis) and when they are on opposite sides (trans).
Step 5: Conclude that 2-pentene has two stereoisomers: cis-2-pentene and trans-2-pentene.
