Click the structures to view the 3D models and animations respectively
The three stereoisomers of tartaric acid are all different.
Manipulate the model to convince yourself that the Newman projections of tartaric acid are the same structures as the ‘zig zag’ structures below.
R,S-tartaric acid is a meso form. It is achiral. Examine the meso form further.
Can you see how the R,S-tartaric acid is related to R,R-tartaric acid?
They are diastereoisomers.
The SS and RR configurations are also related, they are enantiomers.
Stereoisomers that are not mirror images of one another are diastereoisomers.