E&Z configuration

Front

What does E/Z configuration refer to in organic chemistry?

Back

E/Z configuration is a system used to describe the stereochemistry of alkenes based on the priority of substituents attached to the double bond. 'E' (from the German 'Entgegen') means 'opposite', while 'Z' (from 'Zusammen') means 'together'.

Front

How do you determine if a compound is E or Z?

Back

To determine if a compound is E or Z, identify the two substituents on each carbon of the double bond, assign priority based on the Cahn-Ingold-Prelog rules, and then observe their positions: if the higher priority groups are on the same side, it is Z; if they are on opposite sides, it is E.

Front

What is the Cahn-Ingold-Prelog priority rule?

Back

The Cahn-Ingold-Prelog priority rule is a set of rules used to assign priority to substituents based on atomic number and connectivity. The higher the atomic number of the atom directly attached to the chiral center, the higher the priority.

Front

What is an isomer?

Back

An isomer is a compound that has the same molecular formula as another compound but a different arrangement of atoms, leading to different chemical properties.

Front

What is the difference between E and Z isomers?

Back

E isomers have the highest priority substituents on opposite sides of the double bond, while Z isomers have them on the same side.

Front

Provide an example of a molecule that can exist as E/Z isomers.

Back

1,2-dichloroethene is an example of a molecule that can exist as E and Z isomers.

Front

What is the significance of E/Z configuration in organic chemistry?

Back

E/Z configuration is significant because it affects the physical and chemical properties of compounds, including boiling points, solubility, and reactivity.

Front

How does the presence of double bonds affect isomerism?

Back

The presence of double bonds in a molecule restricts rotation, allowing for the existence of geometric isomers (E/Z) based on the spatial arrangement of substituents.

Front

What is the molecular formula for 1,2-dichloroethene?

Back

The molecular formula for 1,2-dichloroethene is C2H2Cl2.

Front

What type of isomerism does E/Z configuration represent?

Back

E/Z configuration represents geometric isomerism, which is a type of stereoisomerism.