Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Isomers are molecules with the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements. They can have different physical and chemical properties despite having the same number of each type of atom.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Isomers are classified into two main types: structural isomers and stereoisomers.
Structural isomers have different connectivity of atoms within the molecule.
Stereoisomers have the same connectivity but differ in spatial arrangement.
Geometric isomers are a type of stereoisomer that differ in spatial arrangement around a double bond or ring structure.
Enantiomers are another type of stereoisomer which are non-superimposable mirror images of each other.
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Related terms
Structural Isomer: Molecules with the same molecular formula but different connectivity of atoms.
Stereoisomer: Molecules with the same molecular formula and connectivity but different spatial arrangements.
Geometric Isomer: \text{A type of stereoisomer that differs in spatial arrangement around a double bond or ring structure.}