# rearrangement

/ɹiɝˈeɪndʒmənt/ (US) · /ɹˌiːɐɹˈeɪndʒmənt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rearrangement
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

a chemical reaction where the atoms in a molecule move around to form a different structure. The same atoms are still there, but their order has changed.

For teachers: a chemical reaction in which the structure of a molecule is altered without changing its molecular formula. Often involves the migration of atoms or groups within the molecule.

## Examples

- The acid catalyzed the rearrangement of the double bond.
- During the heating process, the compound underwent a structural rearrangement that increased its stability.
- The study focused on the thermal rearrangement of the starting material, which eventually led to the formation of a more complex and biologically active product.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.