Ochem Question - Isomers

[MrBeans]

I came across a question that said that conformational isomers are more similar in physical and chemical properties compared to enantiomers.

I would have thought just the opposite. Anyone care to explain?

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[loveoforganic]

This is kind of a silly question because enantiomers have identical physical properties (and often chemical properties, as long as other chiral elements aren't introduced). Conformational isomers are just identical molecules that differ in the spatial arrangement of their atoms. Everything is the same, except some sigma bond is rotated, or some cyclic structure is flexed differently, etc.

 

[MrBeans]

Thanks for your response. It seems to make more sense now.

It seems like a question that is asking which is a slightly better answer

This does seem like a weird question.

 

[loveoforganic]

Yeah, there's a definite best answer, but as worded, it's not a great question regardless.