The functional groups present in a molecule provide a focal point for chemical transformations of the molecule and define the types of reactions that will normally take place.
STEREOCHEMICAL AND
CONFORMATIONAL ISOMERISM
The
functional groups present in a molecule provide a focal point for chemical
transformations of the molecule and define the types of reactions that will
normally take place. The functional groups also affect the types and strengths
of intermolecular interactions in which a molecule engages. Thus functional groups
are important determinants of both the chemical and physical properties of
molecules. In addition to the functional groups present in a molecule, the
structure of a molecule can also influence its chemical and physical properties
significantly.
The
term stereochemistry refers to the
spatial arrangement of atoms and groups in a molecule. Organic molecules are,
for the most part, three-dimensional objects. The shapes of molecules are the
result of the hybridization and bonding geometries of the atomic constituents
of the molecule. Since carbon atoms normally define the backbone of the
molecule, they play a major role in defining the ultimate shape the molecule
takes. Thus familiarity with the principles of hybridization and bonding is
indispensable in developing an understanding of the stereochemistry of organic
molecules.
Because
the shape of a molecule can be crucial to its function and properties, the
stereochemical outcome of a chemical reaction may be just as important as the
chemical outcome. Therefore we must also learn how to deal with stere-ochemical
issues in molecules and how to understand the stereochemistry of chemical
processes.
Related Topics
TH 2019 - 2025 pharmacy180.com; Developed by Therithal info.