Geometic Isomerim
Intro to Organic Worksheet
Definitions & Explanations
1. Define the term stereoisomerism.
It is where molecules have the same molecular formula and sequence of bonded atoms, but differ in the three-dimensional orientations of their atoms in space.
2. Define the term geometric isomerism.
Geometric isomerism is a type of stereoisomerism around a carbon-carbon double bond.
3. Explain why some alkenes display geometric isomerism.
The carbon-carbon double bond cannot rotate, unlike a carbon-carbon single bond. This means that groups always remain on the ‘side’ that they start and cannot swap sides.
4. Naming Stereoisomers
Name the following molecules, including whether they are E or Z forms of the isomer.
a) 
E-Pent-2-ene
b) 
Z-Pent-2-ene
c)
E-4,4-dimethyl-Pent-2-ene
d) 
Z-3-bromo-4-methylpent-2-ene
e) 
E-1-Bromo-1,2-dichloropent-1-ene
f) 
Z-2-Butyl-3-methylpent-2-en-1-ol
g) 
Z-But-2-enoic acid
h) 
E-3-methylbut-2-ene nitrile
i) 
E-aminoprop-1-ene