How many and what are the isomers of #C_4H_8#?

1 Answer
anor277
Feb 20, 2016

A formula of #C_4H_8# specifies 1 degree of unsaturation.

Explanation:

One degree of unsaturation involves the presence of an unsaturated bond OR a ring.

So I can count 5 structural isomers: 2 rings, and 3 olefins. One of the olefins has 2 geometric isomers.

As regards the degree of unsaturation, this is a useful reference when we compare the formula to a saturated molecule, #C_nH_(2n+2)#, i.e. butane if #n# #=# #4#. How many isomers can butane, #C_4H_10#, generate?

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