Stereochemistry of Limonene

Hard Organic Chemistry Stereochemistry

Stereochemistry plays a crucial role in the behavior of organic molecules, particularly in biological systems where the spatial arrangement of atoms can significantly influence the properties and reactivity of compounds. Consider the compound limonene, which has two enantiomers: (R)-limonene and (S)-limonene. These two forms exhibit different smells, with (R)-limonene being associated with a citrus scent and (S)-limonene presenting a pine scent.

Given this context, which of the following statements is true regarding the stereochemistry of limonene?

Both enantiomers have identical physical properties except for their interaction with plane-polarized light.

The (R)-enantiomer will rotate plane-polarized light counterclockwise.

The (S)-enantiomer has a higher boiling point than the (R)-enantiomer.

The (R)-limonene and (S)-limonene enantiomers can be converted into each other through simple physical separation.

Hint

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