What is the correct definition of an isomer?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Question restatement: What is the correct definition of an isomer?

Response to available information: The provided correct-definition states that isomers are molecules that contain the same specific ratio of atoms, but have different bonding (connectivity) between the atoms. This captures a core aspect of isomers: they share the same chemical species composition (same molecular formula) but differ in how those atoms are connected to each other.

Why this definition is correct: 
- The key criterion for most isomers is identical molecular formula, meaning the same number and types of atoms overall. This is what the phrase 'same ... ratio of atoms' is attempting to convey, though more precise wording is 'same molecular formula.'
- The distinguishing feature of isomers is the difference in connectivity or arrangement of atoms, i.e., how atoms are bonded to each other. Different bonding patterns lead to distinct compounds with potentially different properties.
- This description aligns with constitutional (structural) isomers, where the connectivity changes, as opposed to stereoisomers where the connectivity is the same but spatial arrangement differs.

Potential nuances to consider:
- The concept of isomers also includes stereoisomers, which have the same connectivity but differ in three-dimensional arrangement (cis/trans, enantiomers, etc.). The given definition emphasizes connectivity differences, which is a hallmark of constitutional isomers, but does not exclude stereoisomers.
- In common chemistry language, the precise definition is: isomers are compounds that have the same molecular formula but different structures or arrangements of atoms, leading to different properties. The provided statement echoes this by focusing on identical atom counts with different bonding.

Why this definition might be phrased differently in textbooks:
- Many sources explicitly say 'same molecular formula, different structural arrangement (connectivity) of atoms' to cover both connectivity and spatial orientation when necessary.
- The term 'ratio of atoms' could be misinterpreted as empirical formula; for clarity, using 'molecular formula' is preferred to emphasize the entire molecule, not just the empirical ratio.

In summary, the provided definition highlights the essential feature of isomers: identical atom counts with variations in how those atoms are bonded, which leads to different compounds with distinct properties.

CHM111L A Lab 2 Pre-Lab Quiz

What is the correct definition of an isomer?

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