How is chirality defined in the context of molecules, and what property is associated with chiral molecules?

Chirality in molecules arises from their three-dimensional arrangement of atoms, where a molecule and its mirror image are non-superimposable. This spatial asymmetry is defined by the presence of a chiral center, typically a carbon atom bonded to four different groups. Chiral molecules exhibit optical isomerism, existing as enantiomers with distinct mirror-image configurations. Enantiomers share identical physical properties but interact differently with polarized light. This phenomenon is known as optical activity. Chirality plays a crucial role in pharmaceuticals and biochemistry, influencing drug efficacy and biological interactions due to the unique behavior of enantiomers in biological systems.