1. The chemical process by which a molecule is converted into an isomer, a compound with the same molecular formula but a different structural arrangement of atoms.
Usage: chemistry; technical

Examples

• The isomerization of glucose produces fructose, which has the same molecular formula but a different structure.
• Petroleum refining relies on isomerization to convert straight-chain hydrocarbons into branched isomers.
• The enzyme catalyzes the isomerization of the substrate into a more reactive form.
• Heat and pressure can trigger the isomerization of certain organic compounds.
• Isomerization reactions are important in both industrial chemistry and biological systems.