Question

Identify the number of structure/s from the following which can be correlated to D-glyceraldehyde. 

• A. four
• B. three
• C. two
• D. one

Hint:

When identifying stereoisomers, make sure to check the configuration at the chiral centers. D-glyceraldehyde specifically has a chiral center that defines its stereochemistry.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

D-glyceraldehyde is the simplest monosaccharide with one chiral center. It is a three-carbon aldose with the following structural formula: \[ \text{CHO-CHOH-CHOH} \] Among the given structures: 

- Structure (A) represents D-glyceraldehyde itself, as it matches the formula and configuration of D-glyceraldehyde. 

- Structure (B) is an isomer, and the configuration matches that of D-glyceraldehyde. 

- Structures (C) and (D) do not correlate to D-glyceraldehyde because they do not maintain the correct stereochemistry at the chiral center. 

Thus, only two of the given structures (A) and (B) can be correlated to D-glyceraldehyde.