Chapter 22, Problem 3RQ

How are two structural isomers similar to each other?

To determine

The similarity between two structural isomers.

Answer to Problem 3RQ

The chemical formula of two structural isomers is same.

Explanation of Solution

The structural formula is the representation of molecular structure in detail showing how atoms are arranged in three-dimensional space. The compounds having the same chemical formula but have different spatial arrangements of atoms are called isomers.

If the molecules possess the same chemical formula but have different carbon chain arrangements, then it is called structural isomers. For example, n-pentane, iso-pentane and neo-pentane all have the same chemical formula of ${\text{C}}_{\text{5}}{\text{H}}_{\text{12}}$.

Conclusion:

Therefore, two structural isomers are similar to each other as they have the same chemical formula.