Constitutional Isomers vs. Stereoisomers: Key Differences Explained
Constitutional isomers share the same molecular formula but differ in how the atoms are connected—think different “wiring.” Stereoisomers have identical bonds yet differ in spatial orientation—same puzzle, different rotations. Med-students panic when drug names swap constitutional isomers (thalidomide) or stereoisomers (ibuprofen). Both look identical on paper, but one tweak can flip a painkiller into a…