Resolution of racemic mixtures (intro)
Isomerism and Stereochemistry · Chemistry
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How to resolve racemic lactic acid using a chiral base? Step 1: React (±)-lactic acid with chiral base (e.g., brucine). Step 2: Forms two DIASTEREOMERIC salts: (R)-acid·base and (S)-acid·base. Step 3: Diastereomers have different solubilities → crystallize separately. Step 4: Acidify each salt → pure (R)- and (S)-lactic acid. Resolved!