L13 - Organic Chemistry (3) Flashcards
Define Isomer.
Molecules which have the same molecular formula, but different arrangement of atoms.
Describe the different types of isomers.
- Structural (Constitutional) Isomers: Differ in their bonding sequence / molecular skeleton
- Stereoisomers: Differ only in the arrangement of atoms in space
Define Structural Isomer.
Usually different compounds with different physical and chemical properties that differ in their bonding sequence / molecular skeleton.
Describe the different types of structural isomers.
- Chain / Skeletal Isomerism: Carbon skeleton
- Position Isomerism: Position of the functional group
- Functional Isomerism: Identity of the functional group
- Tautomerism: Movement of bonds and a proton
Define Stereoisomer.
Same structural formula but different 3D arrangement of atoms in space.
Describe the different types of stereoisomers.
- Geometric (cis-trans, E/Z) Isomerism
- Optical Isomerism
What causes Geometric Isomerism?
Restricted rotation around a double bond
Describe the possibility of rotation around a double (pi) bond.
- Rotation breaks the double (pi) bond
- Not allowed without an energy input
Describe the possibility of rotation around a sigma bond.
Free rotation
What does Geometric Isomerism require?
Different groups at each end of the bond
What does Geometric Isomerism result in?
Different physical and chemical properties
What is a Cis Isomer?
When two alkyl groups are on the same side of the double bond.
What is a Trans Isomer?
When two alkyl groups are on opposite sides of the double bond.
Describe Cis and Trans Isomers with reference to steric repulsion.
- Cis Isomer: Greater steric repulsion
- Trans Isomer: Less steric repulsion
Define Optical Isomers.
Non-superimposable mirror images.
What do Optical Isomers have the ability to do?
To rotate plane-polarised light in opposite directions