Skip to main content
Ch.4 Introduction to Organic Compounds
Chapter 1, Problem 4.31b

Determine the relationship between each of the pairs of the following compounds. Are they structural isomers (different molecules), conformational isomers (the same molecule), or not related?


(b) <IMAGE> and <IMAGE>

Verified step by step guidance
1
Examine the molecular formula of each compound to ensure they have the same number and type of atoms.
Identify the connectivity of atoms in each compound to determine if they have the same or different structures.
If the connectivity is different, the compounds are structural isomers.
If the connectivity is the same, analyze the spatial arrangement of atoms to see if they can be interconverted by rotation around single bonds.
If they can be interconverted by rotation, they are conformational isomers; if not, they are not related.

Verified Solution

Video duration:
3m
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Structural Isomers

Structural isomers are compounds that have the same molecular formula but differ in the arrangement of atoms within the molecule. This can include variations in the connectivity of atoms, leading to different functional groups or chain structures. For example, butane and isobutane both have the formula C4H10 but differ in their structural arrangement.
Recommended video:
Guided course
2:16
Isomers Concept 1

Conformational Isomers

Conformational isomers, or conformers, are different spatial arrangements of the same molecule that can be interconverted by rotation around single bonds. These isomers do not involve breaking any bonds and can often be represented in various 'staggered' or 'eclipsed' forms. An example is ethane, which can adopt multiple conformations due to rotation around its C-C bond.
Recommended video:
Guided course
2:16
Isomers Concept 1

Relationship Determination

Determining the relationship between compounds involves analyzing their molecular structures to identify whether they are structural isomers, conformational isomers, or unrelated. This process typically requires examining the connectivity of atoms and the potential for rotation around bonds. Understanding these relationships is crucial in organic chemistry for predicting reactivity and properties of compounds.
Recommended video:
Guided course
04:56
Logarithmic Relationships