Pronunciation: [ˈa͡ɪsə͡ʊmɹˌa͡ɪz] (IPA) 
The word "isomerise" is spelled with an "s" instead of a "z" in British English, as opposed to American English. The IPA phonetic transcription for "isomerise" is /aɪˈsɒməraɪz/, which includes a long "i" sound for the first syllable, "s" sounds instead of "z," and a stressed "a" sound in the last syllable. The word means to convert a molecule into its isomeric form, a process that is common in organic chemistry.
Isomerise is a verb that refers to the process of converting a chemical compound into its isomer(s), which are molecules with the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements. This process involves rearranging the atoms within the compound to create a new configuration while maintaining the same number and types of atoms.
The isomerisation reaction is typically catalysed by a specific catalyst or by the application of heat or light energy. It can occur in various types of compounds, including organic and inorganic substances. Isomerising a compound can result in significant changes in its properties, such as physical state (solid, liquid, or gas), stability, reactivity, and solubility.
The purpose of isomerisation can vary depending on the specific compound and intended application. In organic chemistry, isomerisation is often utilized for synthesizing different isomeric forms of a compound with distinct properties, such as different biological activities, improved stability, or enhanced efficacy. In industrial processes, isomerisation may be employed to convert one isomer into another to meet specific product requirements or to optimize the efficiency of a chemical process.
Isomerisation plays a crucial role in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, materials science, petrochemicals, biochemistry, and organic synthesis. It enables scientists and engineers to manipulate the arrangement of atoms within a molecule, ultimately leading to the creation of compounds with desired characteristics and functionalities.
The word "isomerise" is derived from the term "isomer", which comes from the Greek roots "isos" meaning "equal" and "meros" meaning "part". In chemistry, isomers are compounds that have the same molecular formula but differ in their structural arrangement or spatial orientation.
The suffix "-ize" in "isomerise" indicates the process of converting or changing into the form or state of an isomer. Therefore, "isomerise" refers to the act of isomerization, which involves transforming a compound into one of its isomeric forms.
