optical isomerism
nounChemistry.
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.
Origin of optical isomerism
1First recorded in 1890–95
- Compare dextrorotatory, levorotatory, racemism.
Words Nearby optical isomerism
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British Dictionary definitions for optical isomerism
optical isomerism
noun
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 of optical isomerism
- optical isomer, noun
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