Chapter 19, Problem 1RCQ

How do two structural isomers differ from each other?

To determine

The difference in two structural isomers.

Answer to Problem 1RCQ

Solution:

Structural isomers have equal number of Carbon atoms but the orientations of the Carbon atoms differ.

Explanation of Solution

Hydrocarbons are those organic compounds that contain only Carbon and Hydrogen atoms in them.

Structural isomerism is one of the isomerism where the compounds differs in the structure but has the same molecular formula. Such isomers are called as structural isomers. The physical and chemical properties of structural isomers differ from each other.

Structural isomerism is one of the isomerism where the compounds differs in the structure but has the same molecular formula. Such isomers are called as structural isomers. The physical and chemical properties of structural isomers differ from each other.

Consider, the example of Pentane, Neopentane and Isopentane

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These compounds have the same molecular formula that is they have the same kind and same number of atoms present in them. But the structural representations of these compounds vary. Each of the structures has their own configuration. The result of difference in configuration varies the structure of the compounds. Hence compound has same molecular formula but different configuration that changes the structure of the compounds. This is how two compounds having same molecular formula has different structures.

Conclusion:

The difference in two structural isomers is due to their difference in orientations