<P> Cis--trans isomerism, also known as geometric isomerism or configurational isomerism, is a term used in organic chemistry . The prefixes "cis" and "trans" are from Latin: "this side of" and "the other side of", respectively . In the context of chemistry, cis indicates that the functional groups are on the same side of the carbon chain while trans conveys that functional groups are on opposing sides of the carbon chain . Cis - trans isomers are stereoisomers, that is, pairs of molecules which have the same formula but whose functional groups are rotated into a different orientation in three - dimensional space . It is not to be confused with E--Z isomerism, which is an absolute stereochemical description, and only to be used with alkenes . In general, stereoisomers contain double bonds that do not rotate, or they may contain ring structures, where the rotation of bonds is restricted or prevented . Cis and trans isomers occur both in organic molecules and in inorganic coordination complexes . Cis and trans descriptors are not used for cases of conformational isomerism where the two geometric forms easily interconvert, such as most open - chain single - bonded structures; instead, the terms "syn" and "anti" would be used . </P> <P> The term "geometric isomerism" is considered by IUPAC to be an obsolete synonym of "cis--trans isomerism". </P> <P> When the substituent groups are oriented in the same direction, the diastereomer is referred to as cis, whereas, when the substituents are oriented in opposing directions, the diastereomer is referred to as trans . An example of a small hydrocarbon displaying cis--trans isomerism is but - 2 - ene . </P>

What is indicated by the prefixes cis- and trans-