Question

Define the term 'structural isomerism'. Explain why propane cannot exhibit this property. Draw the structures of possible isomers of butane, C4H10(All India - 2014)

Answer 1

Explanation:

The structural formulae of propane show that they do not have a sufficient number of carbon atoms to exist in the form of branched isomer. Hence, they do not exhibit structural isomerism. Isomers of Butane: There are two isomers. N-butane and iso-butane.

Answer 2

Let us look at the answer:

Explanation:

Structural isomerism is the difference in the structures of the same compound by making them branched.

Propane has 3 carbon atoms which cannot be branched.

The butane has formula ( C₄H₁₀). Its  possible isomers are:

• CH₃-CH₂-CH₂-CH₃           n-butane

• CH₃-CH (CH₃)- CH₃          iso-butane    IUPAC : 2 methyl propane)