Absolute configuration

Definition

Absolute configuration is the spatial arrangement of atoms around a chiral center, described as either R (rectus) or S (sinister) based on a set of sequence rules. It defines the 3D orientation of molecule parts and does not change with the molecule's orientation or how it's drawn.

Related terms

Chirality:

A property of a molecule that makes it non-superimposable on its mirror image, much like how your left hand is a non-superimposable mirror image of your right hand.

Enantiomers:

Molecules that are mirror images of each other but cannot be superimposed, similar to left and right hands.

Sequence Rules: A set of guidelines used to determine the priority of groups attached to a chiral center, which helps in assigning the R or S configuration to the chiral center