what is the difference between a conformational isomer and a configurational isomer?
Here is a fairly good site that describes different kinds of isomers. I hope this helps. http://www.slc.ac.nz/WorkshopClub/Workshop/isomers-thesamebutdifferenttext.htm
Configurational isomers are enantiomeric whereas the conformational isomers are shown by specific rotation meaning that they cannot be resolved
The difference between conformational isomers and configurational isomers lies in the ability to interconvert between them.
Conformational isomers are different forms of a molecule that can be interconverted by rotation around a single bond. These isomers differ in the spatial arrangement of groups in relation to one another. The interconversion occurs due to the free rotation around a single bond and does not require breaking or forming any covalent bonds. Therefore, conformational isomers are rapidly interconverting at room temperature and are often referred to as "rotational" isomers.
Configurational isomers, on the other hand, are different forms of a molecule that cannot be interconverted without breaking and reforming covalent bonds. These isomers differ in their spatial arrangement and have separate and distinct chemical identities. Configurational isomers are generally stable at room temperature and are classified into two forms: enantiomers and diastereomers.
Enantiomers are non-superimposable mirror images of each other. They have the same connectivity of atoms but differ in their three-dimensional arrangement, specifically around chiral centers (carbon atoms with four different substituents). Enantiomers have opposite optical activities and exhibit different interactions with other chiral molecules.
Diastereomers, on the other hand, are configurational isomers that are not mirror images of each other. They differ in their spatial arrangement around one or more chiral centers but have different connectivity of atoms. Diastereomers can exhibit different physical and chemical properties.
To differentiate between conformational isomers and configurational isomers, you can consider whether the isomers can interconvert by simple rotation around a single bond (conformational) or if breaking and reforming of covalent bonds is required (configurational).