What term describes isomers that differ only in the spatial arrangement of groups around a double bond or ring structure?

The correct term for isomers that differ only in the spatial arrangement of groups around a double bond or within a ring structure is geometric isomers. This type of isomerism is particularly relevant in the context of alkenes or cyclic compounds, where the arrangement of substituent groups can lead to distinct configurations.

For instance, in a simple alkene with a carbon-carbon double bond, the groups attached to the carbon atoms can either be on the same side (cis configuration) or on opposite sides (trans configuration) of the double bond. These spatial arrangements result in different physical and chemical properties, even though the connectivity of atoms remains unchanged.

This differs from structural isomers, which have the same molecular formula but different connectivity of atoms, leading to entirely different structural forms. Optical isomers, also known as enantiomers, involve isomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other, typically involving asymmetric carbon atoms. Racemates refer to mixtures of equal amounts of these enantiomers, which often exhibit no optical activity due to their canceling effects.

Thus, when considering isomers that merely reflect a difference in the three-dimensional arrangement of groups around a double bond or within a cyclic structure, the term geometric isomers is the