Author
Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Chiral and Achiral?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Chiral and Achiral?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main difference between chiral and achiral molecules lies in their symmetry and mirror images.

Chiral molecules:

  • Are non-superimposable mirror images of each other.
  • Can be classified as "right-handed" or "left-handed" based on their absolute configuration.
  • Exist in two stereoisomers, which are non-superimposable mirror images of each other, known as enantiomers.
  • Have identical chemical properties unless reacting with another chiral molecule.
  • Have comparable physical properties.

Achiral molecules:

  • Are superimposable mirror images of each other.
  • Do not have "handedness".
  • Cannot be classified as "right-handed" or "left-handed".

In summary, chiral molecules are asymmetric and have distinct mirror images, while achiral molecules are symmetric and can be superimposed on their mirror images. Chiral molecules exist in two enantiomeric forms, while achiral molecules do not.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Chiral and Achiral?
  • Comparative Table: Chiral vs Achiral

    • Comparative Table: Chiral vs Achiral

    The main difference between chiral and achiral molecules lies in their ability to be superimposed on their mirror images. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences between chiral and achiral molecules:

    Feature Chiral Molecules Achiral Molecules
    Definition Chiral molecules are non-superimposable on their mirror images, meaning they have a unique "handedness". Achiral molecules are superimposable on their mirror images, meaning they do not have a unique "handedness".
    Stereochemistry Chiral molecules have an asymmetric distribution of atoms, making them non-superimposable on their mirror images. Achiral molecules have a symmetric distribution of atoms, allowing them to be superimposable on their mirror images.
    Examples Examples of chiral molecules include amino acids, sugars, and certain proteins. Examples of achiral molecules include simple molecules like CO2 and linear molecules like H2O2.

    In summary, chiral molecules have a unique "handedness" and cannot be superimposed on their mirror images, while achiral molecules can be superimposed on their mirror images and do not have a unique "handedness."

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.