Which of these objects are chiral (exhibit handedness)? (a) Basketball (b) Foot (c) Golf club (d) Coffee mug (e) Seashell with a helical twist

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of chirality. Chirality refers to an object that cannot be superimposed on its mirror image, much like left and right hands. Such objects are said to exhibit 'handedness'.
2. Step 2: Analyze each object to determine if it is chiral. Start with the basketball. A basketball is symmetrical and can be superimposed on its mirror image, so it is not chiral.
3. Step 3: Consider the foot. Human feet are not identical mirror images; a left foot cannot be superimposed on a right foot, indicating chirality.
4. Step 4: Examine the golf club. Most golf clubs are designed for either right-handed or left-handed players, meaning they are not identical mirror images and are chiral.
5. Step 5: Evaluate the coffee mug and seashell. A typical coffee mug with a handle is not chiral as it can be superimposed on its mirror image by rotating it. However, a seashell with a helical twist is chiral because its spiral cannot be superimposed on its mirror image.