Which type of isomerism is exhibited by molecules with the same structural formula but different spatial arrangements?

Stereoisomerism is seen in molecules that have the same structural formula but differ in the spatial arrangement of their atoms. This type of isomerism arises when the connectivity of the atoms remains constant while the three-dimensional orientation of the atoms changes.

Stereoisomers can include both geometric isomers, which involve different arrangements around a double bond or ring structure, as well as configurational isomers that can change around a single bond (typically in combinations of chiral centers). The unique characteristic of stereoisomers is the focus on how the orientation leads to different properties, reactivities, and behaviors in chemical reactions.

Structural isomerism involves compounds that have the same molecular formula but differ in how their atoms are connected or bonded, while functional group isomerism refers specifically to isomers that contain different functional groups. These types of isomerism do not pertain to changes in spatial arrangement.