Final answer:
Meso compounds are achiral and have a plane of symmetry, while non-meso compounds are chiral without such a plane of symmetry.
Step-by-step explanation:
Meso Compounds vs Non-Meso Compounds
Meso compounds are achiral compounds with two or more chiral centers that possess a plane of symmetry, dividing the compound into two mirror-image halves. They are not optically active because their mirror images are superimposable.
In contrast, non-meso compounds are chiral and do not have a plane of symmetry. These compounds can exist in forms that are not superimposable on their mirror images, making them optically active.
Compounds are broadly categorized based on their bonding as molecular, ionic, or metallic. It is important to note that the distinction between meso and non-meso compounds pertains to stereochemistry and chirality, rather than the types of compounds such as molecular, ionic, or metallic.
Comparison of Compound Types
Molecular compounds are usually formed between non-metal elements and held together by covalent bonds, whereas ionic compounds are typically between metals and non-metals composed of ions held together by ionic bonds.
Molecular compounds tend to have lower melting points compared to ionic compounds due to the difference in the strength of these bonding types. Ionic compounds generally conduct electricity in molten or dissolved states and tend to be water-soluble, while many molecular compounds do not conduct electricity and their water solubility varies.
The differentiation between meso and non-meso compounds focuses on stereochemistry, not whether they are molecular, ionic, or metallic. Molecular compounds typically have lower melting points than ionic compounds and exhibit varying conductivity and solubility properties.