Final answer:
An addition reaction involving the formation of a carbocation intermediate with two new asymmetric centers typically results in a racemic mixture due to the planar nature of the carbocation allowing equal probability of attack from both sides.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an addition reaction that results in a product with two new asymmetric centers forms a carbocation intermediate, a racemic mixture is usually formed. This occurs because the planar structure of the carbocation allows for the nucleophile to attack from either side with equal probability. Consequently, this results in the production of both enantiomers of the product when the reactants and catalysts are achiral. Additionally, the regioselectivity of the electrophilic addition is influenced by the stability of the potential carbocation intermediates, favoring the formation of the more stable carbocation.