Isomerate

Isomerate is a term that refers to a substance that has undergone isomerization. Isomerization is a chemical process that rearranges the atoms of a molecule to form an isomer. Isomers are molecules that have the same molecular formula, meaning they contain the same types and numbers of atoms, but they have different structural formulas, indicating that the atoms are arranged differently in space. This difference in arrangement can lead to distinct physical and chemical properties.

The process of isomerization can occur through various mechanisms, often facilitated by catalysts or specific reaction conditions such as heat or light. For example, in organic chemistry, isomerization can involve the migration of a double bond, the rearrangement of a carbon skeleton, or the conversion between stereoisomers. In industrial processes, isomerization is frequently employed to convert less useful isomers into more valuable ones. A common example is the isomerization of n-butane to isobutane, which is important for producing high-octane gasoline components. Similarly, in the food industry, the isomerization of glucose to fructose produces high-fructose corn syrup, a widely used sweetener. The term "isomerate" can thus be used to describe the product of such isomerization reactions.