What type of isomerism is indicated by each of the following pairs of molecules? Be as specific as possible. (e)
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Step 1: Observe the chemical structures provided in the image. The first molecule contains an oxygen atom bonded between two ethyl groups, forming an ether (ethyl ether). The second molecule contains a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to an ethyl chain, forming an alcohol (ethanol).
Step 2: Recall the concept of functional group isomerism. Functional group isomerism occurs when two compounds have the same molecular formula but differ in the functional groups present.
Step 3: Compare the molecular formulas of the two molecules. Both molecules have the same molecular formula, C2H6O, indicating they are isomers.
Step 4: Identify the functional groups. The first molecule has an ether functional group (-O-), while the second molecule has an alcohol functional group (-OH). This difference in functional groups confirms functional group isomerism.
Step 5: Conclude that the type of isomerism indicated by the pair of molecules is functional group isomerism, as they share the same molecular formula but differ in their functional groups.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Isomerism
Isomerism refers to the phenomenon where two or more compounds have the same molecular formula but differ in the arrangement of atoms or the spatial orientation of their structures. This can lead to distinct physical and chemical properties, making isomers an important topic in organic chemistry.
Structural isomerism occurs when isomers differ in the connectivity of their atoms. This can include variations such as chain isomerism, where the carbon skeleton differs, and functional group isomerism, where the functional groups are different despite having the same molecular formula.
Stereoisomerism is a type of isomerism where isomers have the same molecular formula and connectivity but differ in the spatial arrangement of atoms. This includes geometric isomerism (cis-trans) and optical isomerism, which involves chiral molecules that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other.