Branched Chain Hydrocarbons Explained
A hydrocarbon is described as having a branched chain when one or more carbon atoms are bonded to more than two other carbon atoms. This differs from a straight-chain hydrocarbon, where carbon atoms form a continuous, unbranched sequence.
Analyzing Option Structures
Let's examine the structure of each hydrocarbon option:
- Ethene (C2H4): Structure is $CH2=CH2$. This is a linear molecule with a double bond, not a branched chain.
- Isobutane (C4H10): Also known as 2-methylpropane. Structure is $(CH3)3CH$. This features a central carbon atom bonded to three methyl ($-CH3$) groups, clearly indicating a branched chain.
- Butane (C4H10): The straight-chain isomer is $CH3CH2CH2CH3$. All carbon atoms are in a continuous line, so it is not branched.
- Methane (CH4): Structure is $CH4$. This consists of a single carbon atom, so it cannot have a branched chain.
Conclusion: The Branched Hydrocarbon
Based on the structural analysis, Isobutane is the only hydrocarbon among the options that contains a branched chain structure.
Important Questions from Chemistry
Common salt (NaCl) is not used as a raw material for preparation of which one of the following compounds?
Which one of the following is the chemical formula of Hypobromous acid?
Which one of the following is not used as a raw material in the manufacture of glass?
Which one of the following statements about dihydrogen (H 2) is not correct?
Reaction of quick lime (CaO) with water to produce slaked lime (Ca(OH) 2) is an example of
