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HomeHomework HelpchemistryTypes of Isomers

Types of Isomers

Isomers are molecules that have the same molecular formula but differ in the arrangement of their atoms; structural isomers vary in the connectivity of their atoms, cis-trans isomers (geometric isomers) differ in the spatial arrangement of groups around a double bond, and enantiomers are non-superimposable mirror images of each other.

intermediate
2 hours
Chemistry
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Overview

Isomers are fascinating compounds that share the same molecular formula but differ in their atomic arrangements. This difference can lead to significant variations in their physical and chemical properties, making isomerism a crucial concept in chemistry. Understanding the types of isomers—structura...

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Key Terms

Isomer
Compounds with the same molecular formula but different structures.

Example: C4H10 can be butane or isobutane.

Structural Isomer
Isomers that differ in the connectivity of their atoms.

Example: Butanol and isobutanol.

Cis-Trans Isomer
Isomers that differ in the arrangement of groups around a double bond.

Example: Cis-2-butene and trans-2-butene.

Enantiomer
Isomers that are mirror images of each other.

Example: Lactic acid has two enantiomers.

Chirality
A property of a molecule that makes it non-superimposable on its mirror image.

Example: Chiral molecules often exist as enantiomers.

Optical Activity
The ability of a chiral compound to rotate plane-polarized light.

Example: Enantiomers rotate light in opposite directions.

Related Topics

Stereochemistry
The study of the spatial arrangement of atoms in molecules and its effects on chemical behavior.
intermediate
Chemical Bonding
Understanding how atoms bond and the types of bonds that can form.
intermediate
Organic Reactions
Exploring how different organic compounds react, influenced by their structures.
advanced

Key Concepts

Structural IsomersCis-Trans IsomersEnantiomersImportance of Isomerism