Here's a breakdown:
* Structural isomers: These are compounds with the same molecular formula but different connectivity of atoms. For example, butane and isobutane have the same molecular formula (C4H10) but different structures.
* Stereoisomers: These are compounds with the same structural formula but different spatial arrangements of atoms. There are two main types:
* Enantiomers: These are non-superimposable mirror images of each other. They have the same physical properties but differ in how they interact with plane-polarized light. A common example is the enantiomers of the drug thalidomide.
* Diastereomers: These are stereoisomers that are not mirror images of each other. They can have different physical and chemical properties. A common example is cis- and trans-isomers of alkenes.
Let me know if you'd like to learn more about any specific type of stereoisomer!
