Stereoisomerism
Stereoisomerism
Stereoisomerism (pronunciation: /ˌstɛriːoʊ.aɪˈsɒmərɪzəm/) is a type of isomerism in which molecules have the same molecular formula and sequence of bonded atoms (constitution), but differ in the three-dimensional orientations of their atoms in space. This term, which comes from the Greek words "stereos" meaning solid and "isomeres" meaning equal parts, was first used in the mid-19th century.
Types of Stereoisomerism
Stereoisomerism can be divided into two main types: geometric isomerism and optical isomerism.
Geometric Isomerism
Geometric isomerism, also known as cis-trans isomerism, is a form of stereoisomerism where the spatial arrangement of the atoms or groups of atoms in a molecule differs. This type of isomerism is common in alkenes where rotation about the carbon-carbon double bond is restricted.
Optical Isomerism
Optical isomerism is a form of stereoisomerism that results from the presence of a chiral center in a molecule, usually a carbon atom with four different groups attached. This type of isomerism is so named because the different isomers rotate plane-polarized light in different directions.
Related Terms
- Isomerism: The phenomenon of existence of two or more compounds with the same molecular formula but different properties due to a different arrangement of atoms.
- Chirality (chemistry): A property of a molecule that is not superimposable on its mirror image.
- Enantiomer: One of a pair of molecules that are mirror images of each other.
- Diastereomer: Stereoisomers that are not mirror images of each other.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Stereoisomerism
- Wikipedia's article - Stereoisomerism
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