[rleung]

Hey,

I am not exactly sure how the following molecule has a plane of symmetry through C1 and C4.  The H and Be on C1 and C4 are on opposite sides.  Thanks.

Ryan

[Mitch]

The plane of symmetry has the Hs and Brs on it.

[bedlam17]

Remember to consider that atoms are spherical.

[ericandrews]

The links section of this website has a link to 170 links of shareware/demo software. One of the programs is to teach you about point symmetry. I've downloaded it,  I will check it out soon.

[rleung]

Hey,

I just have another quick question about this one.  Is it symmetrical because the cyclohexane is cis (since they are located on C1 and C4 of a cyclohexane, "cis" structures have the halogens in opposite positions in C1 and C4, such as Br being in equatorial position in C1 and being in axial position in C4)?  Thanks.

Ryan

[movies]

I just have another quick question about this one.  Is it symmetrical because the cyclohexane is cis (since they are located on C1 and C4 of a cyclohexane, "cis" structures have the halogens in opposite positions in C1 and C4, such as Br being in equatorial position in C1 and being in axial position in C4)?  Thanks.

They are actually trans in the picture you have drawn.

At any rate, since the centers reside on the plane of symmetry, both diastereomers (trans and cis) would be meso.  They are, however, diastereomeric, so they are distinctly different compounds.

If I am reading the definition correctly, I think that the term for this type of center is "achirotopic."

I think that is your question....