Wize University Chemistry Textbook > Introduction to Organic Chemistry
Isomers in Summary
Popular Courses
General Chemistry
University Study Guides
CHEM 1AA3
McMaster University
Chemistry
General Course
General Chemistry
University Study Guides
APSC 132
Queen's University
CHEM 112B
Queen's University
CHEM 130
University of British Columbia
CHEM 1100
University of Manitoba
CHEM 1481
Texas A & M University
CHMA10H3
University of Toronto
CHEM 1100
York University
CHEM 1001
Carleton University
CHM 2045
University of Florida
CHEM 111
University of British Columbia
CHEM 112
University of Saskatchewan
CHEM 1P91
Brock University
CHMA11H3
University of Toronto
CHEM 1110
University of Manitoba
CHM 1301
University of Ottawa
CHEM 1300
University of Manitoba
0:00 / 0:00
Isomerism
Isomers are compounds that have the same molecular formula but possess a different chemical structure, potentially leading to vastly different physical, chemical, and biological properties.
Constitutional isomers possess a different connectivity from one another. This means while the molecular formulae are the same, there can be many possibilities for different functional groups or bonding patterns.
Stereoisomers possess the same molecular formula in the same connectivity, but have the arrangement of atoms or bonds in 3D space being different.
Conformational isomers are a type of stereoisomer where the difference in spatial arrangement is due to rotation or twisting about a single bond.
Note: conformational isomers are identical molecules!
Stereoisomers possess the same molecular formula in the same connectivity, but have the arrangement of atoms or bonds in 3D space being different.
Configurational isomers are a type of stereoisomer where the difference in spatial arrangement is not due to rotation or twisting about a single bond.
- Geometric isomers (cis-trans or E/Z isomers) are a type of configurational isomer where the difference in spatial position is around a bond where rotation is not possible (e.g. a double bond).
Watch Out!
Geometric isomers are not possible if two groups on one carbon are the same!
- Optical isomers are a type of configurational isomer where the difference is in the three-dimensional relationship between the substituents. Chiral carbons give rise to optical isomers.
0:00 / 0:00
Example: Isomerism
Complete the table below, by filling each row. If something is not possible write N/A. If one or more of the isomers are not possible please explain your reasoning for each.
