Transconfiguration

Transconfiguration is a term used in chemistry and molecular biology to describe the spatial arrangement of atoms or functional groups on opposite sides of a molecule or double bond. In simple terms, it refers to the arrangement of substituents in a molecule where they are positioned on opposite sides of a specific bond.

Example: In organic chemistry, a common example of transconfiguration is found in certain geometric isomers of alkenes. When two identical groups are attached to the carbon atoms on opposite sides of a double bond, it creates a trans isomer. For instance, in trans-2-butene, the two methyl (CH3) groups are on opposite sides of the double bond:

CH3 ─ CH = CH ─ CH3 (trans-2-butene)

In this example, the two methyl groups are trans to each other across the double bond. The transconfiguration in such molecules can have significant implications for their physical properties and biological activities.