Stereochemistry

Stereochemistry is the branch of chemistry that focuses on the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms within molecules. It helps us understand how the spatial orientation of atoms can affect a substance's properties and reactions. For example, two molecules with the same chemical formula can have different structures, leading to different behaviors—like how left and right hands are mirror images but function differently. This concept is crucial in fields like drug design, where the effectiveness of a medication can depend on its specific shape and orientation in the body.