Isomerizes

Isomerizes is the third-person singular present tense of the verb isomerize, meaning to cause or undergo isomerization. In chemistry, isomerization is the process by which a molecule is transformed into an isomer—one that has the same molecular formula but a different arrangement of atoms or connectivity, giving different properties. Isomerization can involve changes in bonding, geometry, or atom rearrangement, and may occur without changing the overall formula.

Isomerization can proceed by several mechanisms, including thermal, photochemical, and catalytic processes. In alkenes, cis-trans (geometric) isomerization around a carbon–carbon double bond interconverts stereoisomers. Tautomerization, such as keto-enol tautomerism, is another form of isomerization in which a proton shifts and a double bond relocates, resulting in constitutional isomers in dynamic equilibrium. More extensive rearrangements, such as skeletal or ring shifts, may transform the carbon framework into different, but still isomeric, structures.

In biological systems, enzymes called isomerases catalyze isomerization reactions, allowing rapid interconversion between isomers in metabolic pathways. In industry, isomerization is used to adjust properties of materials and fuels—for example, rearrangements of hydrocarbon skeletons to increase octane rating or modify fragrance molecules.