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Questions and Answers
What is the definition of stereoisomers?
What is the definition of stereoisomers?
What distinguishes geometric stereoisomers from optical isomers?
What distinguishes geometric stereoisomers from optical isomers?
What is the main difference between constitutional isomers and stereoisomers?
What is the main difference between constitutional isomers and stereoisomers?
What defines a molecule as chiral?
What defines a molecule as chiral?
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What is the term used to describe a particular three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in stereoisomers?
What is the term used to describe a particular three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in stereoisomers?
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Study Notes
Stereoisomers
- Molecules with the same molecular formula and the same connectivity of atoms but different spatial arrangements of atoms.
- They differ in their three-dimensional structures.
Geometric and Optical Isomers
- Geometric isomers are stereoisomers that differ in the arrangement of atoms around a double bond or a ring.
- Optical isomers are stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other. They are also known as enantiomers.
Constitutional and Stereoisomers
- Constitutional isomers are molecules with the same molecular formula but different connectivity of atoms. This means that the atoms are connected to each other in different orders.
- Stereoisomers are molecules with the same molecular formula and the same connectivity of atoms but different spatial arrangements of atoms. This means that the atoms are connected to each other in the same order, but they are arranged differently in space.
Chirality
- A molecule is chiral if it is non-superimposable on its mirror image.
- This means that the molecule and its mirror image are different, just like your left and right hands.
Configuration
- Configuration refers to the specific three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in a molecule.
- It is a key feature that distinguishes stereoisomers.
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Description
Test your knowledge of stereochemistry with this quiz on the two major classes of isomers: constitutional and stereoisomers. Explore the differences between these isomers in terms of structure, functional groups, physical and chemical properties.