Question

Which of the following statement is/are correct regarding the given resolution reaction?

• A. Both 'A' and 'B' are related as enantiomers
• B. Both 'A' and 'B' are related as diastereomers
• C. Both 'A' and 'B' are separated by simple distillation method
• D. Both (b) and (c)

Answer 1

The correct option is D Both (b) and (c)

The given reaction is the one of the step of the resolution method of separating enantiomers.

Here, both 'R' and 'S' configuration enantiomeric mixture is treated with S-Butanol to form R,S - ester and S, S ester. In both one of the chiral centre is same and other is different. Hence, they are diastereomers.

Diasteromers can be easily separated by distillation method.
Each distilled diasteromers can be individually hydrolysed to get individual R-lactic acid and S-lactic acid.