Definition

Any object that is not superimposable on its mirror image is called chiral.

Explanation

The most important aspect of a chiral molecule is that it is not identical to its mirror image (not even after rotations of the mirror image).

Examples –

  • Hands, Feet
  • Carbon with 4 different atoms
Structural reaction scheme for Chiral, diagram 1 of 2
Figure 1. Chiral
Structural reaction scheme for Chiral, diagram 2 of 2
Figure 2. Chiral