What is isomerism and its importance in organic chemistry?

Isomerism is a consequence of the fact that the atoms of a molecular formula can be arranged in different ways to give compounds, called isomers, that differ in physical and chemical properties. There are two types of isomerism: structural isomerism and stereoisomerism, which can be divided into further subtypes.

What do you know about isomerism?

Isomerism is the phenomenon in which more than one compounds have the same chemical formula but different chemical structures. Chemical compounds that have identical chemical formulae but differ in properties and the arrangement of atoms in the molecule are called isomers.

Why study of stereochemistry in chemistry is important?

Using stereochemistry, chemists can work out the relationships between different molecules that are made up from the same atoms. They can also study the effect on the physical or biological properties these relationships give molecules. An important part of stereochemistry is the study of chiral molecules.

How isomers are utilized in various fields in life?

One of the most important functions of isomers in the human body is that of enzymatic reactions. The orientation, functional groups, bond lengths, and overall 3D structure of a molecule impacts its ability to bind to enzymes. Enzymes typically recognize a specific molecular shape similar to a lock and key.

Is isomerism important for Class 12?

Structural Isomerism is sufficient for understanding class 12th Organic Chemistry. But If you are preparing for competitive exams then you need to go through whole 11th class organic chemistry syllabus.

Why do isomers exist?

Cis-trans isomers can occur when atoms or functional groups are situated on either end of a rigid carbon-carbon bond, such as a double bond. In this case, restricted rotation about the double bond means that the atoms or groups attached to either end can exist in one of two possible configurations.

Why are isomers important?

Isomers are compounds with identical chemical formulae, but different structures. They are very important in air pollution chemistry, because even slightly different structures can evoke dramatic differences in chemical and physical properties.

What is an isomer and why is it important in carbohydrates?

Glucose, galactose, and fructose are monosaccharide isomers, which means they all have the same chemical formula but differ structurally and chemically. Disaccharides form when two monosaccharides undergo a dehydration reaction (a condensation reaction); they are held together by a covalent bond.

What is positional isomers in chemistry?

Positional isomers are constitutional isomers that have the same carbon skeleton and the same functional groups but differ from each other in the location of the functional groups on or in the carbon chain. They have the same carbon skeleton: They have the same functional group, a bromine atom.