Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Condensed Structure
A condensed structure is a simplified representation of a molecule that shows the arrangement of atoms and their connectivity without depicting all the bonds explicitly. In this format, groups of atoms are often grouped together, and hydrogen atoms attached to carbons are usually omitted for clarity. This type of structure is useful for quickly conveying the molecular formula and connectivity in a compact form.
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Skeletal Structure
A skeletal structure, also known as a line-angle structure, is a representation of organic molecules where carbon atoms are represented by vertices or ends of lines, and hydrogen atoms are implied. This format emphasizes the carbon backbone and functional groups, making it easier to visualize the overall shape and connectivity of the molecule. It is particularly useful for larger molecules where a full structural formula would be cumbersome.
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Functional Groups
Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. In the context of ethers and alcohols, the ether functional group (-O-) and the hydroxyl group (-OH) are crucial for understanding the properties and reactivity of sec-butyl tert-butyl ether and isoheptyl alcohol. Recognizing these groups helps in predicting the behavior of the compounds in chemical reactions.
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