Isomers and Stereoisomers

These flashcards cover key concepts related to isomers and stereoisomers from the lecture notes, including definitions and classifications.

Isomers

Different compounds with the same molecular formula.

Constitutional Isomers

Isomers with different connectivity of their atoms.

Stereoisomers

Isomers with the same connectivity of their atoms, but a different orientation of their atoms in space.

Enantiomers

Stereoisomers whose molecules are nonsuperposable mirror images.

Diastereomers

Stereoisomers whose molecules are not mirror images.

Chirality

A property of a carbon atom bonded to four unique groups of atoms.

R Configuration

The configuration of a chiral center when the highest priority groups are arranged in a clockwise direction.

S Configuration

The configuration of a chiral center when the highest priority groups are arranged in a counterclockwise direction.

Optical Activity

The ability of a compound to rotate plane-polarized light.

Levorotatory

A compound that rotates light to the left or counterclockwise.

Dextrorotatory

A compound that rotates light to the right or clockwise.

Racemate

A 50:50 mixture of two enantiomers that has no optical activity.

Meso Compound

A compound that has an internal plane of symmetry and is not chiral.

Resolution of Enantiomers

Methods used to separate enantiomers based on their different physical properties.