The (-) enantiomer of a compound has a specific rotation of [a] = 86o. A sample of this pure enantiomer, when measured in the polarimeter in a two dm sample tube, gives an observed rotation of a = -4.3o. What is the concentration of this sample in g/mL?
The specific rotation, [a] = 86o
The observed rotation, a = -4.3o
The length of the analysis tube is two dm; l = 2.0 dm
Solution:
The specific rotation, [a] = 86o
The observed rotation, a = -4.3o
The length of the analysis tube is two dm; l = 2.0 dm
The concentration is therefore:
c = 0.025 g/mL