PHOTOISOMER Meaning and
Definition
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A photoisomer is a term used in chemistry to describe a particular type of isomer that undergoes a change in its molecular structure or configuration through exposure to light. Isomers are molecules that have the same chemical formula but differ in their arrangement or spatial orientation. In the case of photoisomers, this transformation occurs as a result of absorption of photons, which triggers electronic or structural changes within the molecule.
Photoisomers can exhibit various properties, such as altered reactivity, stability, solubility, or optical properties, as compared to their initial isomeric form. The photoisomerization process typically involves the rearrangement of atoms or groups within the molecule, leading to a change in its overall shape or geometry. This alteration can occur through processes like bond breaking or formation, electron transfer, or conformational changes.
The phenomenon of photoisomerization finds applications in several fields. For instance, it is used in optical data storage devices where exposure to light enables the switching between distinct states that represent binary information. Photoisomerization processes are also extensively studied in the development of photoswitchable materials, which can change their properties in response to light. Furthermore, photoisomerization reactions play a crucial role in biological systems, particularly in the fields of vision and photobiology.
In summary, a photoisomer is a type of isomer that undergoes a change in its molecular structure or configuration upon exposure to light, resulting in altered properties and potential applications in various scientific and technological fields.
Common Misspellings for PHOTOISOMER
- ohotoisomer
- lhotoisomer
- -hotoisomer
- 0hotoisomer
- pgotoisomer
- pbotoisomer
- pnotoisomer
- pjotoisomer
- puotoisomer
- pyotoisomer
- phitoisomer
- phktoisomer
- phltoisomer
- phptoisomer
- ph0toisomer
- ph9toisomer
- phoroisomer
- phofoisomer
- phogoisomer
- phoyoisomer
Etymology of PHOTOISOMER
The word "photoisomer" is derived from two main components: "photo-" and "isomer".
1. The prefix "photo-" comes from the Greek word "phōs", meaning "light". This prefix is commonly used in scientific terms related to light or electromagnetic radiation, such as "photography" (writing with light) or "photosynthesis" (synthesis using light).
2. The term "isomer" comes from the Greek word "isomēros", which means "equal in measure" or "part taken with another in equal share". In chemistry, an isomer refers to any of two or more compounds that have the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements or spatial orientations.
So, when combining these two elements, "photoisomer" refers to a compound that undergoes an isomerization process or changes its structure or spatial arrangement when exposed to light or electromagnetic radiation.
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