What are Fisher projections in organic chemistry?

1 Answer
Oct 29, 2014

A Fischer projection is a way of showing a three dimensional structure in two dimensions. It shows the absolute configuration at chiral centres.

In a Fischer projection, the longest chain is drawn vertically.

The four bonds to a chiral carbon make a cross, with the carbon atom at the intersection of the horizontal and vertical lines.

The two horizontal bonds are pointing toward the viewer. The two vertical bonds are directed away from the viewer.

Fisher projections from chemistry.umeche.maine.edu.