isomerism

types of structural isomerism

chain, functional, position

types of stereoisomerism

geometric, optical

structural isomers are defined as having…

the same molecular formula but a different structural formula

stereoisomers are defined as having…

the same molecular and structural formula, but a different spatial arrangement of bonds and atoms

chain isomerism:

different arrangements of a molecule’s carbon skeleton

position isomerism:

different positions of the same functional group in a molecule

functional group isomerism:

different positions of atoms give a different functional group

geometric isomerism:

different atoms or groups around a bond with restricted rotation

optical isomerism:

non-superimposable mirror images of the same molecule

what is a chiral carbon atom?

a carbon atom with 4 different groups attached

what are two compounds which are optical isomers called?

enantiomers

what is a racemic mixture?

a mixture containing a 50/50 mixture of enantiomers

what similarities do optical isomers have?

same chemical and physical properties

what difference do enantiomers have?

a different effect on plane polarised light (optically active)

why are racemic mixtures optically inactive?

enantiomers’ effect on plane polarised light cancel out