Why are these chiral centers when it is connected to two Carbons so not 4 different groups?

Chemistry
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ISBN:9781305957404
Author:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste
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Chapter1: Chemical Foundations
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Problem 1RQ: Define and explain the differences between the following terms. a. law and theory b. theory and...
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Why are these chiral centers when it is connected to two Carbons so not 4 different groups? 

### Understanding Meso Compounds

**Diagram Analysis:**

The image presents a chemical structure illustrating an achiral (meso) compound. The compound is depicted with a six-membered ring featuring two substituents, each marked with a wedge line to indicate stereochemistry. A dashed blue line runs vertically through the center of the ring, representing the plane of symmetry.

**Key Points:**

1. **Meso Compounds:**
   - Meso compounds are a type of stereoisomer that appear chiral due to the presence of stereocenters but are actually achiral due to an internal plane of symmetry.
   - Despite having multiple stereocenters, the molecule is superimposable on its mirror image, making it achiral.

2. **Plane of Symmetry:**
   - The dashed line indicates the plane of symmetry, which divides the molecule into two mirror-image halves.
   - The presence of this plane is the critical factor that renders the compound achiral.

Understanding meso compounds is essential in stereochemistry as they provide insights into molecular symmetry and chiral behavior, despite complex appearances due to multiple stereocenters.
Transcribed Image Text:### Understanding Meso Compounds **Diagram Analysis:** The image presents a chemical structure illustrating an achiral (meso) compound. The compound is depicted with a six-membered ring featuring two substituents, each marked with a wedge line to indicate stereochemistry. A dashed blue line runs vertically through the center of the ring, representing the plane of symmetry. **Key Points:** 1. **Meso Compounds:** - Meso compounds are a type of stereoisomer that appear chiral due to the presence of stereocenters but are actually achiral due to an internal plane of symmetry. - Despite having multiple stereocenters, the molecule is superimposable on its mirror image, making it achiral. 2. **Plane of Symmetry:** - The dashed line indicates the plane of symmetry, which divides the molecule into two mirror-image halves. - The presence of this plane is the critical factor that renders the compound achiral. Understanding meso compounds is essential in stereochemistry as they provide insights into molecular symmetry and chiral behavior, despite complex appearances due to multiple stereocenters.
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Given : Structure of Cis 1,2 dimethyl cycloheptane

To find : Chiral center

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