configuration

The three-dimensional arrangement of an organic molecule that is caused by:

double bonds that prevent free rotation, or

chiral centers that have side groups arranged around them in a particular order.

A configurational isomer can't be turned into another configuration without breaking covalent bonds.

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From the BioTech Dictionary at http://biotech.icmb.utexas.edu/. For further information see the BioTech homenode.

Con*fig`u*ra"tion (?), n. [L. configuratio.]

1.

Form, as depending on the relative disposition of the parts of a thing' shape; figure.

It is the variety of configurations [of the mouth] . . . which gives birth and origin to the several vowels. Harris.

2. Astrol.

Relative position or aspect of the planets; the face of the horoscope, according to the relative positions of the planets at any time.

They [astrologers] undertook . . . to determine the course of a man's character and life from the configuration of the stars at the moment of his birth. Whewell.

 

© Webster 1913.