Question

For complete racemization:

• A. Compound should not have any optical isomers.
• B. Optical isomers are present in 2:3 ratio.
• C. Two equal and opposite optical isomers are present.
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is C Two equal and opposite optical isomers are present.

Racemization is of two types:
1. Complete Racemization
If in a reaction mixture, two equal and opposite optical isomers are present, the reaction is said to take place with complete racemization.
Example:

2. Partial Racemization:
When one of the optical isomer is present in excess in a reaction mixture, then it is said to take place with partial racemization.
Example: