Chapter 4, Problem 1P

a. Draw three constitutional isomers with molecular formula C₃H₈O.

b. How many constitutional isomers can you draw for C₄H₁₀.O?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The three constitutional isomers of molecular formula $C_3{H}_{8}O$ has to be drawn.

Concept introduction:

Constitutional isomers are having the same molecular formula and different bond connectivity between the atoms.

The general formula for an alkane is $C_n{H}_{2n+2}$.

Equation for finding constitutional isomers for a molecule

Answer to Problem 1P

Explanation of Solution

The given molecular formula is $C_3{H}_{8}O$, it fulfils the general formula for an alkane $C_n{H}_{2n+2}$, so $C_3{H}_{8}O$ contains only single bonds.

Therefore,

$C_3{H}_{8}O$ can be an alcohol or ether.

The two possible alcohols are,

$C{H}_3-C{H}_2-C{H}_2-OH$ ,

The possible ether is,

$C{H}_3-C{H}_2-O-C{H}_3$

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The numbers of constitutional isomers of molecular formula $C_4{H}_{10}O$ has to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Constitutional isomers are having the same molecular formula and different bond connectivity between the atoms.

Answer to Problem 1P

The numbers of constitutional isomers of molecular formula $C_4{H}_{10}O$ is 7

Explanation of Solution

The given molecular formula is $C_4{H}_{10}O$, it fulfils the general formula for an alkane $C_n{H}_{2n+2}$, so $C_4{H}_{10}O$ contains only single bonds.

Therefore,

$C_4{H}_{10}O$ can be an alcohol or ether.

There will be five alcohol isomers (due to four carbons) and two ether isomers.

Hence,

$C_4{H}_{10}O$ have 7 constitutional isomers.