Why can the formula C_5H_12 support isomerism?

1 Answer
DocA ยท Stefan V.
Feb 13, 2018

Because there are branched chain molecules of the same molecular formula.

Explanation:

Pentane has 5 carbon atoms in a chain. It is "C"_5"H"_12. This molecular formula is also shared by a butane molecule with a methyl side chain, which can be on either "C" atom number 2 or 3 in the chain i.e. 2-methylbutane or 3-methylbutane.

You can also have a propane molecule with two methyl side chains both on "C" atom number 2 in the chain i.e. 2,2-dimethylpropane.

Related questions
See all questions in Isomerisms
Impact of this question
1960 views around the world
You can reuse this answer
Creative Commons License