Isomerism

Isomerism refers to the phenomenon where two or more compounds, known as isomers, have the same molecular formula but different structural or spatial arrangements. This concept is fundamental in organic chemistry and biochemistry, as it explains the diversity of organic compounds.

Types of Isomerism

Isomerism can be broadly classified into two types: structural isomerism and stereoisomerism.

Structural Isomerism

Structural isomerism, also known as constitutional isomerism, occurs when the isomers have different connectivity of atoms. There are several types of structural isomerism, including:

• Chain Isomerism: The isomers have different arrangements of the carbon skeleton.
• Functional Group Isomerism: The isomers have different functional groups.
• Tautomeric Isomerism: The isomers are in equilibrium and rapidly interconvert.
• Ring-Chain Isomerism: The isomers alternate between ring and chain forms.

Stereoisomerism

Stereoisomerism occurs when the isomers have the same connectivity of atoms but different spatial arrangements. There are two types of stereoisomerism:

• Geometric Isomerism: The isomers have different arrangements around a double bond or a ring.
• Optical Isomerism: The isomers are mirror images of each other and rotate plane-polarized light in opposite directions.

Importance of Isomerism

Isomerism is crucial in many areas of science and technology. In pharmaceuticals, different isomers of a drug can have different therapeutic effects. In petrochemical industry, isomerization processes are used to increase the octane number of hydrocarbons.

See Also

• Chirality (chemistry)
• Stereochemistry
• Tautomer
• Functional group

Isomerism Resources
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