STEREOCHEMISTRY Meaning and
Definition
-
Stereochemistry refers to the branch of chemistry that deals with the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in molecules and the impact of this arrangement on their chemical and physical properties. It specifically focuses on studying the spatial arrangement of atoms in molecules and how it affects their behavior, reactivity, and interactions with other molecules.
In stereochemistry, researchers consider the spatial relationships between atoms and groups of atoms within a molecule. This involves examining the arrangement of atoms in three-dimensional space, considering factors such as bond angles, bond lengths, and the orientation of functional groups. Stereochemistry examines different types of isomerism, which are variations in the arrangement of atoms that result in different structures with unique properties.
One of the key concepts in stereochemistry is chirality. Chirality refers to the property of an object that is non-superimposable on its mirror image, much like a human hand. Stereochemistry investigates the behavior of chiral molecules and the ways they interact with other molecules, as well as the biological effects of chirality, particularly in medicinal chemistry and drug design.
Overall, stereochemistry plays a crucial role in understanding the fundamental principles of molecular structure and how it influences the behavior and properties of chemical compounds. By studying stereochemistry, scientists can design more efficacious drugs, develop improved catalysts for chemical reactions, and gain insights into the intricate mechanisms of molecular interactions.
-
The branch of chemistry dealing with atoms in their space relations, with the positions which the atoms in a compound bear in relation to one another.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for STEREOCHEMISTRY
Etymology of STEREOCHEMISTRY
The word "stereochemistry" is derived from two Greek roots: "stereo" (στερεός), meaning "solid", and "chemistry" (χημεία), meaning "the science of matter and the changes it undergoes".
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
