Draw and name all constitutional isomers

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In summary, the conversation discusses how to draw and name constitutional isomers with the formula C9H20, which have one quaternary carbon and one or more ethyl groups. The speaker suggests starting with one ethyl group and finding a place to attach it on the main chain, while also ensuring that the main chain has a quaternary carbon. They also suggest drawing one isomer first and then using that as a reference for finding more. The question is also posed about whether C9H20 is an alkane, alkene, or alkyne.
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noxflos
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I am doing my Organic Chem homework and need help. It asks: Draw and name all constitutional isomers with formula C9H20 which have one quaternary carbon and one or more ethyl groups (there are three). What are they and how do I find them?
 
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Is C9H20 an alkane, alkene or alkyne ? Start with one ethyl group and figure out where you can stick this group on the main chain for it to still be called ethyl. Now fix the main chain by making sure it has a quaternary C.

Start off and draw one isomer, and then you'll find it easier to get more.
 
  • #3
Gokul43201 : Thanks for the help! :)
 

1. What are constitutional isomers?

Constitutional isomers are molecules that have the same molecular formula, but differ in the arrangement of atoms within the molecule. This means that they have the same number of each type of atom, but the atoms are bonded together in a different way.

2. How do you draw constitutional isomers?

To draw constitutional isomers, you need to first determine the molecular formula of the molecule. Then, you can draw the different arrangements of atoms and bonds, making sure to adhere to the rules of bonding and valence for each element. It may be helpful to use a molecular modeling kit or software to visualize the different isomers.

3. Are all molecules capable of having constitutional isomers?

No, not all molecules have constitutional isomers. Molecules with simple structures, such as H2O or CO2, do not have different arrangements of atoms and therefore do not have constitutional isomers. However, larger and more complex molecules, such as alkanes and alkenes, are more likely to have multiple constitutional isomers.

4. How do you name constitutional isomers?

Each constitutional isomer is named using the same base name, but with a different prefix to indicate the location of the functional group in the molecule. For example, in butane and methylpropane, both molecules have four carbon atoms, but the location of the methyl group changes the prefix from "but" to "methyl". The suffix of the name is also changed depending on the functional group present.

5. Why are constitutional isomers important in chemistry?

Constitutional isomers are important in chemistry because they demonstrate the concept of isomerism, which is the phenomenon of molecules with the same molecular formula having different structures and properties. This is important for understanding the behavior and reactivity of different molecules in chemical reactions, as well as in fields such as drug design and materials science.

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