Question

The maximum number of stereoisomers that can exist for the above shown compound is:

• A. 2
• B. 8
• C. 10
• D. 16

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

10

The compound is symmetrical and contains 4 asymmetric carbon atoms. The number of d and l isomers is $2^{n-1}=2^{4-1}=2^3=8$
The number of meso forms is $2^{n/2-1}=2^{4/2-1}=2$
The maximum number of stereoisomers is $8+2=10$