Chapter 2, Problem 2.45EP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The five possible constitutional isomers of hydrocarbon with the molecular formula of ${\text{C}}_{\text{4}}{\text{H}}_{\text{8}}$ has to be drawn.

Concept Introduction:

Organic compounds are represented shortly by the molecular formula and structural formula.  Each and every compound has its own molecular formula.  Compounds can have same molecular formula but not same structural formula.

Isomers are the compounds that have same molecular formula but different structural formula.  The main difference lies in the way the atoms are arranged in the structure.  Isomers have different chemical and physical properties even when they have same molecular formula.  This is known as Isomerism.

If there is difference only in the connectivity of the atoms in the molecule, then it is known as constitutional isomerism.  The isomers are known as constitutional isomers.  They will have same molecular formula and same functional group, but they differ in the connectivity between the atoms in the molecule.

In case of alkenes, two different constitutional isomers subtypes are possible.  They are skeletal isomers and positional isomers.

Skeletal isomers are a type of constitutional isomers which have different carbon‑atom arrangement and have the same functional group in them.

Positional isomers are a type of constitutional isomers which have same carbon‑atom arrangement and have difference in location of functional group in them.