A compound has the molecular formula C4H10. Which statement best describes its structure?
It can exist as two different isomers with straight or branched chains
C4H10 is butane, a saturated open-chain alkane satisfying the general formula CnH2n+2, so it contains only single C-C and C-H bonds and no ring.
Four carbon atoms can be joined in two distinct ways: a straight chain (n-butane, CH3-CH2-CH2-CH3) and a branched chain (isobutane, (CH3)3CH). These are the two structural isomers of butane.
Being saturated, it need not contain a C=C double bond, nor is it restricted to a single structure or a cyclic form.
Hence, the answer is It can exist as two different isomers with straight or branched chains.
Similar Questions
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(2) Each successive member differs by a \(-CH_2-\) group.
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Important Questions from Hydrocarbons
- Which structural feature contributes to the high reactivity of unsaturated organic compounds?
- Unsaturated hydrocarbons usually produce:
- Which property of carbon allows it to form a large number of compounds by bonding with itself and other elements?
- Which type of bond is present between carbon atoms in saturated hydrocarbons?
- Power Alcohol is a mixture of ______ and ethyl alcohol.
