stereoisomerism

/ˌstɛɹɪəʊaɪˈsɒməɹɪzəm/

stereoisomerism

English Noun

Definition

A form of isomerism in which atoms are arranged differently about a chiral centre (or centre of asymmetry). They exhibit optical activity, and in a molecule with a single chiral centre the two isomers (enantiomers) are mirror images of each other whereas in a molecule with multiple chiral centres the isomers (diastereoisomers) are not normally mirror images.

Etymology

From stereo- + isomerism.