Logic and Order in Stereochemistry

Abstract

A framework of concepts, definitions, and classifications is discussed that form a basis for a formalized, computer-oriented approach to stereochemistry. These include constitutional symmetry and constitutionally equivalent atoms, chiral genus and its role in asymmetric syntheses, permutation isomers, the chemical identity group of molecules and ensembles of molecules, set-valued mappings and their stereochemical uses that pertain to the correlation of the stereochemical features of the educts and products in chemical reactions, as well as diverse notions that serve to classify and interpret stereoselectivity. – It is the purpose of this article to point out briefly some simple new tools for better understanding, analyzing, and criticizing current stereochemical results.