The conversion of an optically pure isomer (enantiomer) into a mixture of equal amounts of both dextro and levo forms is called as:
Correct Answer: Racemization
Description: Racemization is defined as the interconversion of enantiomers to give a 1:1 mixture of enantiomers called a racemate. An optically active compound may occur as: D isomeor = Dextro-isomer = rotates polarized light to the right side, L isomer = Levo-isomer = rotates polarized light to the left side. When equal amount of D & L isomers are present, the resulting mixture has no optical activity since the activities of each isomer cancel each other. Such a mixture is said to be 'Racemic' or (DL) mixture. The orientation of the - H and - OH group around the carbon atom adjacent to the terminal primary alcohol carbon determines whether the sugar belongs to the D or L series. Most of the monosaccharides occuring in mammals are of the D configuration. Ref: Harper's Principles of Internal Medicine, 25th Edition, Page 150; Vasudevan Biochemistry, 3rd Edition, Page 61
Category:
Biochemistry
Get More
Subject Mock Tests
Practice with over 200,000 questions from various medical subjects and improve your knowledge.
Attempt a mock test nowMock Exam
Take an exam with 100 random questions selected from all subjects to test your knowledge.
Coming SoonGet More
Subject Mock Tests
Try practicing mock tests with over 200,000 questions from various medical subjects.
Attempt a mock test now