Drawing molecular structure for C₄H₁₃NO₃ using the HONC rule

[Cod]

My professor wants the class to put some different chemical formulas in molecular structure while following the HONC Rule. He gave us six different chemical forumals to convert and I have finished five of them correctly; however, there is still one giving me trouble. Here is the given formula: $$C^{4}H^{13}NO^{3}$$

Now, I've worked on this problem for about 30 minutes tonight. And every way I work it out I end up using 12 hydrogens, not 13. I'm beginning to think this is one of those formulas that cannot be put into molecular forum.

Any help is greatly appreciated.



EDIT: I cannot get the LaTeX to come out looking right. So I hope y'all understand that its just 4 Carbons, 13 Hydrogens, 1 Nitrogen, and 3 Oxygens. Sorry for the inconvienence.

 

[Bystander]

Think about "poly-alcohols" (glycerin, glycol, etc.) --- then add other functional groups; or, ignore the oxygens (you can always insert them into C-H bonds), and work on the C-H-N possibilities. There are compounds with this stoichiometry --- and, they do obey the rules.

 

[M98Ranger]

Hi there, it sounds like you have put in a lot of effort to try and solve this problem. First of all, great job on successfully converting five out of the six chemical formulas using the HONC rule. It shows that you have a good understanding of molecular structures and chemical formulas.

Now, for the formula that is giving you trouble (C^{4}H^{13}NO^{3}), it is possible that there may be a typo in the formula itself. As you mentioned, you have tried various methods and still end up with 12 hydrogens instead of 13. This could indicate that the formula may not be correct or it may be a more complex molecule that requires a different approach to determine the correct molecular structure.

In any case, I would suggest bringing this issue to your professor's attention. They may be able to provide some clarification on the formula or give you some guidance on how to approach it. It's always better to seek help and clarification rather than spending too much time trying to solve a problem that may not have a solution.

Overall, don't get discouraged by this one formula. You have successfully completed the majority of the assignment, which is a great accomplishment. Keep up the good work and don't be afraid to ask for help when needed. Best of luck!