optical isomerism

noun

, Chemistry.

1. stereoisomerism in which the isomers are identical in molecular weight and most chemical and physical properties but differ in their effect on the rotation of polarized light.

optical isomerism

noun

1. See racemize, laevorotatory, dextrorotation
   isomerism of chemical compounds in which the two isomers differ only in that their molecules are mirror images of each other See also dextrorotation laevorotatory racemize

Derived Forms

• optical isomer, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of optical isomerism¹

First recorded in 1890–95