4.1 Stereoisomerism

What is a structural isomer?

Compounds that have the same molecular formula but the atoms are bonded to each other in a different order

What is a stereoisomer?

Compounds where the atoms are bonded to each other in the same order but arranged differently in space

What are the 2 types of stereoisomers?

ez isomers and optical isomers 

What is EZ isomerism?

Occurs in alkenes due to the restricted rotation about the double carbon bond

What is optical isomerism?

Occurs when the two isomers have different effects on plane of polarised light

What is a plane of polarised light?

Light where the waves only vibrate in one direction

What is a chiral centre?

An atom in a molecule that is bonded to 4 different groups

What is an asymmetrical or chiral carbon?

A carbon bonded to 4 different groups and is not symmetrical

What are enantiomers?

A pair of molecules with chiral carbons that rotate the plane of polarised light in opposite directions

What is a racemic mixture?

An equal mixture of the two enantiomers of a chiral molecule

What happens in a racemic mixture?

No optical activity because the enantiomers cancel each other out