Stereoisomerism

Stereoisomerism is defined as molecules with the same structural formula but whos atoms are arranged differently in space due to the restricted rotation of the carbon carbon double bond. There are 2 main types of stereoisomerism- Cis and Trans. Cis (or Z) isomers (Z standing for Zusammen, the German word for together) occurs when the same groups or groups of a high priority are both found on the same side of the restricted double bond. Trans (or E) isomers (E standing for Entgegen, the German word for opposite) occurs when the same groups or groups of a high priority are across the double bond and are so found on opposite sides.