Isomerization
Isomerization
Isomerization (/aɪˌsɒməˈreɪʃən/) is a process in which a molecule, ion, or radical is transformed into an isomer - a molecule with the same atoms, but arranged in a different way. The term is derived from the Greek words 'isos' meaning 'equal', and 'meros' meaning 'part'.
History
The concept of isomerization was first introduced by Swedish chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius in 1830. He discovered that certain compounds could have the same chemical formula but different structures, a phenomenon he termed as isomerism.
Types of Isomerization
There are several types of isomerization, including:
- Structural isomerization: This occurs when the connection between atoms changes, but the atoms themselves remain the same.
- Stereoisomerization: This occurs when the spatial arrangement of atoms changes, but the connections between the atoms remain the same.
- Tautomeric isomerization: This is a special type of isomerization where the proton shifts position leading to a different functional group.
Isomerization in Biochemistry
In biochemistry, isomerization plays a crucial role in various biological processes. For instance, the isomerization of glucose in the body helps in the metabolism of carbohydrates. Similarly, the isomerization of retinal, a form of vitamin A, is essential for vision.
Isomerization in Industry
In the petrochemical industry, isomerization is used to convert linear molecules to branched molecules, which have higher octane numbers and are therefore more valuable as fuel. This process is known as alkane isomerization.
See Also
References
- Principles of Biochemistry, by Albert L. Lehninger
- Organic Chemistry, by Paula Yurkanis Bruice
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Isomerization
- Wikipedia's article - Isomerization
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