stereoisomers
Same atoms, different arrangement
Stereoisomers are molecules with the same chemical formula and bonding sequence but different spatial arrangements.
The atoms connect identically, but their three-dimensional orientation differs—like left and right hands, which are mirror images but can't be superimposed.
This distinction matters enormously in biochemistry, where one stereoisomer of a drug may be therapeutic while another is harmful or inert.
chirality
Separating mirror-image isomers
- handednessPreferred limb dominance
- mirror imageReversed visual duplicate
- superimposableAble to overlay exactly
- thalidomideSedative causing fetal deformities
types
Isomer position descriptors
- conformationalRelating to spatial arrangement
- antiPrefix for opposition
- endoPrefix meaning inside
- exoPrefix for outer
biochemistry
Chain becoming functional structure
- amino acidsOrganic compounds forming proteins
- carbohydratesSugar-based energy compounds
- L-amino acidsLeft-rotating protein components
- lock and keyPaired fastening mechanism
synthesis
Formal decision or determination
- racemic mixtureEqual parts both enantiomers
- chiral auxiliaryDetachable asymmetric synthesis guide
chiral resolution
Separating mirror-image isomers
- handednessPreferred limb dominance
- mirror imageReversed visual duplicate
- superimposableAble to overlay exactly
cis-trans
Isomer position descriptors
- conformationalRelating to spatial arrangement
- antiPrefix for opposition
- endoPrefix meaning inside
exo · axial · equatorial
protein folding
Chain becoming functional structure
- amino acidsOrganic compounds forming proteins
- carbohydratesSugar-based energy compounds
- L-amino acidsLeft-rotating protein components
resolution
Formal decision or determination
- racemic mixtureEqual parts both enantiomers
- chiral auxiliaryDetachable asymmetric synthesis guide