Which of the following compounds does NOT exhibit optical isomerism?

Which of the following compounds does NOT exhibit optical isomerism?

Correct Answer: Butane

Step 1: Understand what optical isomerism is. It occurs when a compound can exist in two forms that are mirror images of each other, known as enantiomers.
Step 2: Identify what a chiral center is. A chiral center is a carbon atom that is attached to four different groups.
Step 3: Look at the compound butane. Butane is a simple hydrocarbon with the formula C4H10.
Step 4: Check the structure of butane. Butane has a straight-chain structure and does not have any carbon atoms that are attached to four different groups.
Step 5: Conclude that since butane does not have a chiral center, it cannot exhibit optical isomerism.

No concepts available.