(R)-2-Bromobutane vs (S)-2-Bromobutane - Isomer Relationship
What is the relationship between (R)-2-Bromobutane and (S)-2-Bromobutane?
Mirror images that cannot be superimposed. The chiral center at C2 has the opposite configuration (R vs S).
| Molecule A | (R)-2-Bromobutane (C₄H₉Br) |
| Molecule B | (S)-2-Bromobutane (C₄H₉Br) |
| Relationship Type | enantiomers |
| Difficulty | beginner |
Introduction
These two molecules look almost identical, but one is the mirror image of the other. Can you superimpose them?
Formula Comparison
Both have the same formula C₄H₉Br and the same connectivity. Every atom is bonded to the same neighbors.
Connectivity Analysis
The bonding sequence is identical: CH₃–CHBr–CH₂–CH₃. Same connectivity means they are not constitutional isomers.
Spatial Relationship
One is the mirror image of the other. Try rotating them — no matter how you orient them, you cannot make them identical. They are non-superimposable mirror images.
Chirality Check
Carbon 2 has four different substituents: CH₃, C₂H₅, Br, and H. This makes it a chiral center. The R and S designations indicate opposite configurations.
Classification
These are enantiomers — non-superimposable mirror images. They have identical physical properties except for optical rotation.
Side-by-side 3D comparison with sync rotation, difference highlighting, and guided classification.
Compare (R)-2-Bromobutane and (S)-2-Bromobutane in 3DRelated Topics
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Stereochemistry Explorer
Assign R/S configuration to chiral centers with CIP priority rules
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