Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tautomerize

verb

/ˌtɔːtəˈmɛraɪz/

Definition

The process by which a tautomeric compound converts from one tautomer to another.

Examples

The compound can tautomerize in the presence of a catalyst.
When heated, some ketones tautomerize to form enols.
Amines can tautomerize by transferring a proton from the nitrogen to the adjacent carbon.

Meaning

Tautomerization involves the rearrangement of atoms within a molecule, typically shifting a hydrogen atom between two atoms to create different structural forms known as tautomers.