[Campbell Biology P.110] According to the text, which condition is essential for a molecule ... | Practice Question

According to the text, which condition is essential for a molecule to exhibit cis-trans isomerism?

  • A: The molecule must contain an asymmetric carbon atom attached to four different groups.
  • B: The molecule must have a double bond where each carbon involved in the double bond is attached to two different atoms or groups of atoms.
  • C: The molecule must consist only of single bonds, allowing free rotation around the bond axis.
  • D: The molecule must be a mirror image of another molecule and non-superimposable.

Explanation

The text states: 'If a double bond joins two carbon atoms, and each C also has two different atoms or groups of atoms attached to it, then two distinct cis-trans isomers are possible.' This condition ensures the restricted rotation and distinct spatial arrangements necessary for cis-trans isomerism.