Introduction to Fisher Projections

Fisher projections are a fundamental tool in organic chemistry for representing three-dimensional molecular structures in a two-dimensional format. Developed by Hermann Emil Fischer in the late 19th century, these projections offer a simplified way to depict the spatial arrangement of atoms within a molecule, particularly focusing on the orientation of functional groups. By using horizontal lines to represent bonds coming out of the plane of the paper and vertical lines for bonds going into the plane, Fisher projections provide a clear and intuitive visualization method crucial for understanding molecular configurations and reactions.