Prochirality

Prochirality refers to a specific type of symmetry in a molecule where, if you make a small change—like replacing one atom with another—the molecule becomes chiral, meaning it has a non-superimposable mirror image (like left and right hands). Essentially, a prochiral molecule is symmetric but can be converted into a chiral molecule through a simple, single substitution. This concept is important in chemistry because it helps understand how molecules gain or lose "handedness," which often influences their biological activity and interactions.