Overview
Isomerism is a fundamental concept in organic chemistry that explains how compounds with the same molecular formula can exist in different forms. These forms, known as isomers, can have distinct physical and chemical properties, which is crucial for understanding the behavior of organic compounds. T...
Key Terms
Example: C2H6O can be ethanol or dimethyl ether.
Example: Butane and isobutane.
Example: Cis and trans isomers of 2-butene.
Example: Lactic acid has two optical isomers.
Example: A chiral carbon atom has four different substituents.
Example: Staggered and eclipsed forms of ethane.
Related Topics
Stereochemistry
The study of the spatial arrangement of atoms in molecules and its effects on chemical behavior.
intermediateFunctional Groups
Specific groups of atoms that determine the characteristics and reactions of organic compounds.
beginnerReaction Mechanisms
The step-by-step sequence of events that occur during a chemical reaction.
advancedOrganic Synthesis
The process of constructing organic compounds through chemical reactions.
advancedKey Concepts
Structural IsomersGeometric IsomersOptical IsomersConformational Isomers