Chapter 3.4, Problem 3QQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The number of constitutional isomers possible for ${\text{C}}_{\text{3}}$ and ${\text{C}}_{\text{4}}$ saturated alcohols that does not have a ring structure has to be chosen from the given options.

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 alcohols, constitutional isomerism is possible for the compounds that contain three or more carbon atoms.