Illustrated Glossary of Organic Chemistry

Configuration: The three-dimensional arrangement of atoms or groups in a molecule, usually in reference to stereoisomers.

Priorities: HO > CH₃CH₂ > CH₃ > H. This molecule is (R)-2-butanol. R/S is an example of absolute configuration.


Priorities: I > CH₃ and CH₃CH₂ > H. This molecule is (Z)-2-iodo-2-pentene. E/Z is an example of relative configuration.