Organic Chemistry

Study of carbon-containing compounds and their reactions.

Structure and Bonding in Organic MoleculesFunctional Groups and NomenclatureTypes of Organic Reactions
Stereochemistry and ChiralityReaction MechanismsSpectroscopy and Organic Analysis
Organic Chemistry in MedicineOrganic Chemistry in Everyday LifeEnvironmental Impact of Organic Compounds
Mastering Reaction TypesVisualizing Structures
Structure and Bondin...Functional Groups an...Types of Organic Rea...Stereochemistry and ...Reaction MechanismsSpectroscopy and Org...Organic Chemistry in...Organic Chemistry in...Environmental Impact...Mastering Reaction T...Visualizing Structur...
Advanced Topics

Stereochemistry and Chirality

Looking at Molecules in 3D

Not all molecules with the same formula are identical—some are mirror images! This is the world of stereochemistry.

Chirality

A molecule is chiral if it cannot be superimposed on its mirror image (like your hands). Chirality is crucial in nature and medicine.

Enantiomers

  • Enantiomers are pairs of chiral molecules that are mirror images.
  • Their properties may be identical in most ways, but they often interact with living systems differently.

Why Stereochemistry Matters

Many drugs work only if they have the correct 3D shape. One enantiomer might be a helpful medicine, while its mirror image could be ineffective or even harmful.

Examples

  • The two enantiomers of limonene smell like oranges and lemons, respectively.

  • Thalidomide's different enantiomers led to very different effects in patients.

In a Nutshell

Stereochemistry studies the 3D arrangement of atoms, crucial in pharmaceuticals and biology.

Key Terms

Chirality
A property where an object is not superimposable on its mirror image.
Enantiomer
One of a pair of molecules that are mirror images of each other.
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Reaction Mechanisms
Stereochemistry and Chirality - Organic Chemistry Content | Practice Hub