Question

The following structures are:

• A. enantiomers.
• B. identical molecules.
• C. diastereomers.
• D. meso compounds.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images are enantiomers. Stereoisomers that are not mirror images of each other are diastereomers.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
By assigning R/S configurations to both chiral centers in both structures:
In Structure 1, let the centers be \(C_2\) and \(C_3\). If the configuration is \((2R, 3S)\).
In Structure 2, we observe that one chiral center has the same configuration while the other is inverted (e.g., \(2R, 3R\)).
Since only some, but not all, chiral centers are inverted, the two molecules are not mirror images. Therefore, they are diastereomers.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The structures are diastereomers.