R
Relative Stereochemistry
Definition: The spatial relationship between stereocenters within a molecule without reference to absolute configuration.
Context: Important for describing diastereomers in synthesis and structure elucidation.
Example: Erythro and threo configurations of 2,3-butanediols.
Related Terms: Absolute Configuration; Diastereomer; Enantiomer.
Reference: Eliel & Wilen (1994).
S
Stereochemistry
Definition: The branch of chemistry concerned with the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in molecules and its influence on properties and reactions.
Context: Central to understanding drug action, synthesis outcomes, and regulatory specifications for isomeric purity.
Example: E/Z isomers of tamoxifen show distinct properties.
Related Terms: Chirality, Configuration, Conformation.
Reference: Eliel & Wilen (1994).
