Definitions
- Describing molecules or ions that have the same number of atoms and the same overall shape. - Referring to compounds that have similar chemical and physical properties due to their similar molecular structures. - Talking about pairs of molecules or ions that can replace each other in a chemical reaction without changing the reaction's outcome.
- Describing atoms, ions, or molecules that have the same number of electrons. - Referring to species that have the same electron configuration and similar chemical properties. - Talking about groups of elements or compounds that can form isoelectronic series based on their electron configurations.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe relationships between molecules, ions, or atoms.
- 2Both words involve similarities in chemical and physical properties.
- 3Both words are used in chemistry and related fields.
What is the difference?
- 1Definition: Isosteric refers to similarity in shape and number of atoms, while isoelectronic refers to similarity in electron configuration.
- 2Scope: Isosteric is more specific and often used to describe pairs of molecules or ions, while isoelectronic can be applied to atoms, ions, or molecules.
- 3Application: Isosteric is commonly used in organic chemistry, while isoelectronic is more frequently used in inorganic chemistry.
- 4Examples: Isosteric examples often involve small molecules, while isoelectronic examples can include larger molecules and ions.
Remember this!
Isosteric and isoelectronic are two words used in chemistry to describe similarities between molecules, ions, or atoms. While both words refer to similarities in chemical and physical properties, isosteric emphasizes similarity in shape and number of atoms, while isoelectronic focuses on similarity in electron configuration.
