Question

Draw two structural isomers having the formula \(\text{C}_4\text{H}_{10}\).

Hint:

As the number of carbon atoms increases in alkanes, the number of possible structural isomers increases rapidly.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Structural isomers are molecules with the same molecular formula but a different arrangement of atoms (different structure).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The molecular formula \(\text{C}_4\text{H}_{10}\) represents butane, an alkane. It has two structural isomers:
1. n-butane (normal butane): A straight, unbranched chain of four carbon atoms.
Structure: \(\text{CH}_3-\text{CH}_2-\text{CH}_2-\text{CH}_3\)
2. Isobutane (IUPAC name: 2-methylpropane): A branched chain where a methyl group is attached to the central carbon of a three-carbon chain.
Structure: \(\text{CH}_3-\text{CH}(\text{CH}_3)-\text{CH}_3\)

Step 3: Final Answer:
The two isomers are the straight-chain n-butane and the branched-chain isobutane.