isomerism

Isomerism

The phenomenon where two or more compounds have the same molecular formula but different physical and chemical properties due to different arrangements of atoms.

Structural Isomerism

Isomers that differ in the order in which atoms are connected, also known as constitutional isomers.

Chain Isomerism

A type of structural isomerism where isomers differ in the structure of the carbon skeleton (straight vs. branched).

Positional Isomerism

Isomers that have the same carbon skeleton and functional groups but differ in the positions of the functional groups.

Functional Group Isomerism

Isomers that share the same molecular formula but contain different functional groups.

Metamerism

A type of structural isomerism arising from unequal distribution of alkyl groups around a polyvalent functional group.

Stereoisomerism

Isomers that have the same molecular formula and connectivity of atoms, but differ in spatial orientation.

Geometrical Isomerism

A form of stereoisomerism often found in alkenes, distinguished by the relative positions of groups around a double bond.

Cis-isomer

A stereoisomer where identical groups are on the same side of a double bond.

Trans-isomer

A stereoisomer where identical groups are on opposite sides of a double bond.

Optical Isomerism

A type of stereoisomerism where molecules are non-superimposable mirror images of each other, known as enantiomers.

Chiral Center

A carbon atom bonded to four different groups, which enables a molecule to exhibit optical isomerism.

Dextrorotatory

Describes a compound that rotates plane-polarized light to the right.

Levorotatory

Describes a compound that rotates plane-polarized light to the left.