Absolute configuration
Absolute Configuration
The Absolute Configuration (pronounced: ab-so-lute con-fig-u-ra-tion) is a term used in Stereochemistry, a sub-discipline of Chemistry, to describe the spatial arrangement of the atoms or groups of atoms in a Chiral molecule.
Etymology
The term 'Absolute Configuration' is derived from the Latin word 'absolutus', meaning 'freed, unrestricted', and the Latin word 'configuratio', meaning 'arrangement, form'. It was first used in the context of stereochemistry in the 20th century.
Definition
The Absolute Configuration of a chiral molecule is determined by the Cahn-Ingold-Prelog priority rules, which assign a priority to the atoms or groups attached to the chiral center based on their atomic number and mass. The arrangement of these groups is then described as either 'R' (from the Latin 'rectus', meaning 'right') or 'S' (from the Latin 'sinister', meaning 'left').
Related Terms
- Chiral molecule: A molecule that is not superimposable on its mirror image.
- Stereochemistry: The study of the three-dimensional structure of molecules.
- Cahn-Ingold-Prelog priority rules: A set of rules used to determine the stereochemistry of a molecule.
- Chiral center: An atom in a molecule that is attached to four different types of atoms or groups.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Absolute configuration
- Wikipedia's article - Absolute configuration
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