Isomers
Isomers
Isomers (/aɪˈsɒmərz/; from the Greek 'isos' meaning "equal" and 'meros' meaning "part") are molecules that have the same molecular formula but different structural formulas. This means that they contain the same number and type of atoms, but these atoms are arranged differently in space.
Isomers are a key concept in organic chemistry, where they are often created in reactions that involve the rearrangement of atoms. They are also important in biochemistry, as many biological molecules, such as glucose and fructose, are isomers of each other.
Types of Isomers
There are two main types of isomers: structural (or constitutional) isomers and stereoisomers.
- Structural isomers have the same molecular formula but different connectivity of atoms. This means that the atoms are connected in a different order. Examples of structural isomers include pentane and isopentane, which are both C5H12 but have different structures.
- Stereoisomers have the same molecular formula and the same connectivity of atoms, but different spatial arrangements of atoms. Stereoisomers can be further divided into two subtypes: geometric isomers and optical isomers.
- Geometric isomers differ in the arrangement of groups around a double bond or a ring. An example is cis-trans isomerism, where the same groups are on the same (cis) or opposite (trans) sides of a double bond.
- Optical isomers (or enantiomers) are mirror images of each other that cannot be superimposed. They are named because they rotate plane-polarized light in different directions.
Importance of Isomers
Isomers can have very different chemical and physical properties, despite having the same molecular formula. This is because the structure of a molecule greatly influences its behavior. For example, the taste, smell, and color of a substance are often determined by the arrangement of its atoms.
In biology, isomers can have dramatically different effects on the body. For example, one isomer of a drug may be beneficial, while another may be harmful. This is why the study of isomers is so important in the development of new medicines.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Isomers
- Wikipedia's article - Isomers
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