Chapter U2, Problem 4STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The best description of isomers needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

The ions or molecules with identical formulas but different structures are isomers. The two isomers may or may not have similar properties.

Answer to Problem 4STP

The correct option is (A).

Explanation of Solution

Isomers have similar molecular formula but different chemical structure. In each element, isomer has similar number of atoms but the arrangement of atoms is different. Below are the two types of isomers:

Constitutional Isomer − It is also known as structural isomers in which functional groups and atoms are linked together but in different ways. These kinds of isomers contain different IUPAC names which might or might not belong to the same functional groups.

Stereoisomers − In this type of isomers, the bond structure is same but functional groups and atom’s geometrical positioning in space varies. This comprises enantiomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other as well as diastereomers that are not mirror image of each other. Enantiomers always have chiral center but there are some diastereomers which are not chiral.

So, constitutional isomers are the isomers which contain same chemical but different physical properties.For example, glucose and fructose are isomers. The molecular formula is same but arrangement of atoms is different.

So, the correct option is (A) where the two compounds have same molecular formula but different structural formula and they are not likely to be same.