5 Questions
What is the defining characteristic of isomers?
Having the same molecular formula but differing in the way atoms are joined
What type of isomers have the same connectivity of atoms?
Stereoisomers
What is the key difference between isomers and conformers?
Isomers are long-lived and isolable, while conformers are not
What is the term for isomers that are non-superimposable mirror images?
Enantiomers
What is the process required for isomerization to occur?
Bond breaking
Study Notes
Isomerism
- Isomerism is a phenomenon where two or more compounds have the same molecular formula but differ in the way their atoms or groups are bonded together.
Characteristics of Isomers
- Isomers have the same molecular formula but different structural formulae.
- They contain the same atoms bonded together in different ways.
Types of Isomers
- Constitutional isomers: have different connectivity of atoms.
- Stereoisomers: have the same connectivity of atoms.
- Enantiomers: a type of stereoisomers.
- E and Z double bonds: a type of stereoisomers.
Properties of Isomers
- Isomers are generally long-lived and isolable.
- Isomerization requires breaking bonds.
Contrast with Conformers
- Conformers: many different spatial arrangements resulting from rotations about single bonds.
- Isomers differ from conformers in being long-lived and isolable.
Learn about isomerism, a phenomenon where compounds have the same molecular formula but differ in their atomic arrangement. Discover the different types of isomers and their characteristics.
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