Question

C₅H₁₀ \(\xrightarrow{h\nu}\) possible structural isomers?

Hint:

When considering the number of structural isomers, focus on how the carbon chain can be rearranged, considering both straight chains and branching structures.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 3

The given reaction involves a molecule of C₅H₁₀ undergoing a photochemical reaction (indicated by \(h\nu\), where \(\nu\) represents light). When light is used to excite this molecule, it can lead to the formation of structural isomers by breaking bonds or rearranging atoms.

To determine the number of possible structural isomers, we can look at the different ways the carbon atoms can be arranged while maintaining the molecular formula C₅H₁₀.

- In the simplest case, we have a straight chain of 5 carbon atoms, which gives us pentane (C₅H₁₂) with the hydrogen atoms filling the remaining bonds. - Then, branching of the carbon chain can give rise to different structural isomers like 2-methylbutane and 3-methylbutane, where one or two of the carbons branch off the main chain.

Thus, there are 3 structural isomers of C₅H₁₀ that can result from this photochemical reaction.

\[\boxed{3}\]

Therefore, the correct number of possible structural isomers is 3.