Page 3 Flashcards
What are stereoisomers?
A: Stereoisomers differ only in the way the atoms are oriented in space.
Do stereoisomers have the same IUPAC names?
A: Yes, stereoisomers have identical IUPAC names except for a prefix like cis or trans.
Do stereoisomers share the same functional groups?
A: Yes, stereoisomers always have the same functional group(s).
In what way do stereoisomers differ?
A: Stereoisomers differ in configuration, which is the particular three-dimensional arrangement of atoms.
What does the term “configuration” refer to in stereoisomers?
A: Configuration refers to the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in a molecule.
Are stereoisomers structurally identical in two dimensions?
A: Yes, they have the same structural formula but differ in spatial arrangement.
What property remains identical in stereoisomers?
A: Their functional groups and connectivity remain the same.
Can stereoisomers have different physical properties?
A: Yes, stereoisomers can have different physical and chemical properties due to their spatial arrangement.
Why is stereochemistry important in biology and chemistry?
A: Stereochemistry is crucial because the spatial arrangement of atoms can significantly affect a molecule’s function and interactions.
