Definition

A field of chemistry that studies how the arrangement of atoms in molecules affects their properties and behavior.

Example

Stereochemistry is important for understanding how different molecules interact with each other.

Conversation

Have you ever studied stereochemistry in your chemistry class?

Yeah, I found it fascinating how the arrangement of atoms can affect properties.

Right? I never realized how important stereochemistry was until we covered it.

It really is crucial for understanding how molecules interact.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stereochemistry → It is formed from "stereon" (from Greek "στερεός", meaning solid or three-dimensional) and "chemistry" (from Greek "χημεία", meaning the art of transmuting metals). The term refers to the study of the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in molecules and how this affects their chemical properties.

Memory Tip

Think of 'solid' ('stereon') shapes in three dimensions when you remember that 'stereochemistry' is about the arrangement of atoms in space.

Visually Confused Words