Cis/Trans Stereocenters

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Maverick56

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How does Muscalure [(9Z)-Tricosene]) not have a stereocenter?
I thought if the molecule is capable of cis and trans its a stereocenter.

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How does Muscalure [(9Z)-Tricosene]) not have a stereocenter?
I thought if the molecule is capable of cis and trans its a stereocenter.

In order to be a stereocenter, an atom has to be sp3 hybridized and qualify for all other criteria of chirality. Cis/trans in the molecule refers to a double bond. Both carbon's participating in the bond (referred to as vinyl carbons) are sp2 hybridized, and, thus, fail the criteria to be chiral centers.

You can have cis/trans conformations in cycloalkanes that may qualify to be stereocenters, but its not guaranteed.
 
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