Stereoisomerism Flashcards
What are stereoisomers?
Have the same structural formula but a different arrangement of atoms in space
2 types of stereoisomers
Geometric
Optical
2 types of geometric isomers
E/Z isomers
Cis/Trans isomers
Why are stereoisomers formed?
Because atoms in an Alkene cannot rotate around the double bond
Thus can form a different arrangement of atoms in space
Why can atoms not rotate around the double bond?
Because double bonds contain pi bond (side on overlap of p orbitals) which are rigid and atoms cannot rotate around
E/Z stereoisomerism
When all groups attached to the double bond in an Alkene are different this system is used
E isomers
When the priority groups are on opposite sides of the double bond
Z isomers
When the prioity groups are on ze zame zide of the double bond
What determines the prioity groups of each group in the Alkene?
The higher the molecular formula (of carbon chain) has number 1 prioity
When is the cis /trans (WOKE) naming system used?
If there is at least 1 group in common
Cis isomers
When same groups are on the same side of the double bond
Trans isomers
When same groups are on different sides of the double bond
