Chapter 12.13, Problem 14P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Structural formulas of the stereoisomeric products of addition of bromine to cis and trans $\text{1,2-diphenylethyelene}$ are to be drawn and the stereoisomer of $\text{1,2-diphenylethyelene}$ that gives a meso dibromide and the one that gives a chiral dibromide are to be identified.

Concept introduction:

Electrophilic addition through a cyclic bromonium intermediate of bromine to an alkene proceeds and results in anti-addition.

Meso compounds are achiral compounds containing two or more chiral centers. They contain a plane or center of symmetry.