What are the different types of isomers?

Structural isomers are compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural formulae. They can be :1. Carbon chain isomers that differ in the length of the carbon chain2. Positional isomers that have the same functional group, but in different positions on the carbon skeleton3. Functional group isomers that are members of different homologous series and hence have different functional groups, e.g. methoxymethane and ethanolStereoisomers have the same structural formula, but the atoms in these compounds have differing spatial arrangements. There are two types of stereoisomerism :1. Geometric isomerism is caused by the presence of a functional group that restricts rotation. It is also called cis-/trans- isomerism or E/Z isomerism.2. Optical isomers/ enantiomers are non-superimposable mirror images of each other meaning that they exist as right- and left- handed structures. 

KR
Answered by Krupa R. Chemistry tutor

6552 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe a two step reaction route that can convert 1-Butene (CH2CHCH2CH3) into a compound that is more soluble in water. Use mechanisms to aid your answer (HINT: one of the steps involves nucleophilic substitution)


Define the terms atomic number and mass number


Explain why fluorine is reactive


Explain the trend in ionization energy down a group of the periodic table.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning