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Isomerism: meaning, definitions and examples

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isomerism

 

[ ˈaɪsəˌmɛrɪzəm ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chemistry concept

Isomerism is a phenomenon in chemistry where compounds with the same molecular formula exhibit different structural arrangements or spatial orientations. These variations in structure can lead to distinct chemical and physical properties. There are two primary types of isomerism: structural isomerism, where the connectivity of atoms differs, and stereoisomerism, which involves differences in the spatial arrangement of atoms. Understanding isomerism is crucial for chemists as it impacts reactions, synthesis, and biological functions.

Synonyms

chemical variation, molecular variability, structural diversity

Examples of usage

  • Butane has two structural isomers.
  • Stereoisomers can have different optical activities.
  • The study of isomerism is key in organic chemistry.
  • Isomerism plays a role in drug design.
  • Identifying isomers is vital for molecular identification.

Translations

Translations of the word "isomerism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 isomerismo

🇮🇳 आइसोमेरिज़्म

🇩🇪 Isomerie

🇮🇩 isomerisme

🇺🇦 ізомерія

🇵🇱 izomeria

🇯🇵 異性体

🇫🇷 isomérie

🇪🇸 isomería

🇹🇷 izomerizm

🇰🇷 아이소머리즘

🇸🇦 الترتيب الجزيئي

🇨🇿 izomerie

🇸🇰 izomeria

🇨🇳 异构现象

🇸🇮 izomerija

🇮🇸 íómerí

🇰🇿 изомерия

🇬🇪 იზომერია

🇦🇿 izomerizm

🇲🇽 isomería

Etymology

The term 'isomerism' derives from the Greek words 'isos', meaning 'equal', and 'meros', meaning 'part'. It was first introduced in the early 19th century as chemists began to discover that compounds could share the same molecular formula but differ in their arrangements. This discovery was pivotal in the development of organic chemistry. The concept evolved as scientists like August Kekulé and Emil Fischer explored the structures of various organic compounds, leading to a deeper understanding of the relationship between structure and function in chemistry. Isomerism has since become an essential topic in both theoretical and applied chemistry, influencing fields such as pharmaceuticals, materials science, and biochemistry.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,559 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.