Which type of isomerism is exhibited by 1,2-dichloroethene?
Practice Questions
Q1
Which type of isomerism is exhibited by 1,2-dichloroethene?
Structural isomerism
Geometric isomerism
Optical isomerism
Conformational isomerism
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
Which type of isomerism is exhibited by 1,2-dichloroethene?
Correct Answer: Geometric isomerism
Step 1: Understand what isomerism means. Isomerism is when two or more compounds have the same formula but different structures.
Step 2: Identify the compound in question, which is 1,2-dichloroethene. It has the formula C2H2Cl2.
Step 3: Look at the structure of 1,2-dichloroethene. It has a double bond between two carbon atoms.
Step 4: Notice that there are two chlorine atoms attached to the carbon atoms at positions 1 and 2.
Step 5: Determine if the compound can have different arrangements. Since the double bond restricts rotation, the chlorine atoms can be on the same side (cis) or on opposite sides (trans).
Step 6: Conclude that 1,2-dichloroethene can exist in two forms: cis (same side) and trans (opposite sides). This is called geometric isomerism.