Step 1: Understand what stereoisomers are. Stereoisomers are compounds that have the same molecular formula and connectivity of atoms but differ in the arrangement of atoms in space.
Step 2: Identify the structure of 2-pentene. 2-pentene is an alkene with a double bond between the second and third carbon atoms.
Step 3: Recognize that the double bond in 2-pentene can create different spatial arrangements. This is because the groups attached to the double-bonded carbons can be arranged differently.
Step 4: Determine the possible arrangements. For 2-pentene, the two main arrangements are when the same groups are on the same side of the double bond (cis) and when they are on opposite sides (trans).
Step 5: Conclude that 2-pentene has two stereoisomers: cis-2-pentene and trans-2-pentene.
Stereoisomerism – The concept of stereoisomerism involves the spatial arrangement of atoms in molecules, leading to different isomers that have the same molecular formula but different configurations.
Geometric Isomers – Geometric isomers are a type of stereoisomer that differ in the arrangement of groups around a double bond, specifically in terms of cis (same side) and trans (opposite sides) configurations.
