Question

How many stereoisomers are possible for meso-tertaric acid?

Answer 1

Explanation:

three stereoisomers

Tartaric acid has two chirality centers, so the rule predicts there will be four stereoisomers. However, each of the chirality centers has identical groups attached to the carbons, so there are actually only three stereoisomers. Below are the R,R-stereoisomer and the S,S-stereoisomer (O is red).

Answer 2

Explanation:

three stereoisomers

Tartaric acid has two chirality centers, so the rule predicts there will be four stereoisomers. However, each of the chirality centers has identical groups attached to the carbons, so there are actually only three stereoisomers. Below are the R,R-stereoisomer and the S,S-stereoisomer (O is red).