isoizomers

Isomers are molecules that have the same molecular formula but different structural formulas. This means they are composed of the same types and numbers of atoms, but the arrangement of these atoms in space differs. Isomers can exhibit different physical and chemical properties.

There are several types of isomerism. Structural isomerism, also known as constitutional isomerism, occurs when molecules have the same molecular formula but differ in the connectivity of their atoms. For example, butane and isobutane (2-methylpropane) are structural isomers; both have the formula C4H10 but differ in how the carbon atoms are bonded.

Stereoisomerism describes molecules with the same molecular formula and the same connectivity but differ in their spatial arrangement. Geometric isomerism, a type of stereoisomerism, arises in molecules with restricted rotation, such as double bonds or rings. Cis and trans isomers are common examples, where substituents are on the same side (cis) or opposite sides (trans) of the double bond or ring.

Enantiomers are a specific type of stereoisomer that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other, much like left and right hands. This property is called chirality. Diastereomers are stereoisomers that are not mirror images of each other. The study of isomers is fundamental to understanding the diversity and behavior of chemical compounds.