[ns9908]

Let's say we're performing a Kolbe reaction on a certain alpha amino acid--say, valine. In this case it's a crossed-Kolbe with a large excess of NaOAc, so the product should be 2-amino, 3-methyl butane. If one stars with L-valine, the carboxyl becomes a radical, and then a methyl group. My question is this, is there chirality in radical compounds? Would the product be (R)-2-amino-3-methyl butane, or the racemate?

[azmanam]

radicals are sp2 hybridized and therefore planar and therefore lack chirality.

[ns9908]

I figured as much; thanks for the help.