Isomers are molecules or polyatomic ions with the same molecular formula, meaning they have the same number of atoms of each element, but distinct arrangements of atoms in space. Isomers can differ in their chemical and physical properties, despite having the same number and types of atoms. The word "isomer" comes from the Greek words "isos" meaning "equal" and "meros" meaning "part". There are several types of isomers, including:
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Structural isomers: These isomers have the same number of atoms of each element and the same molecular formula, but the atoms are connected in distinct ways.
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Stereoisomers: These isomers have the same connectivity, but the parts are oriented differently in space. Stereoisomers can be further divided into two types:
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Geometric isomers: These isomers have the same connectivity, but the atoms are arranged differently in space due to the presence of a double bond or a ring structure.
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Optical isomers: These isomers have the same connectivity, but they differ in the placement of substituted groups around one or more atoms of the molecule.
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Conformational isomers: These isomers differ from one another by their rotation around a single bond.
Isomers are important in fields such as chemistry and pharmaceuticals, as they can have different properties and effects on the body.
