Question

How do structural isomers arise?

Answer 1

By the ability of a given formula to give rise to distinct structures.....

Explanation:

Structural isomerism arises from differing connectivity. An organic formula of `C_4H_10` can give rise to two structural isomers: `"n-butane,"` `H_3C-CH_2CH_2-CH_3`; and `"methylpropane or isobutane,"` `H_3C-CH(CH_3)CH_3`.

As the organic formula becomes larger, the number of possible isomers necessarily increase. `C_5H_12` can generate 3 structural isomers. And `"hexane"`, `C_6H_14` can generate 5 structural isomers. And so on...........the larger alkanes can generate many structural isomers.

The possibility of isomerism demands the need for an efficient and recognized system of identification that can name a given structural isomer straightforwardly and unambiguously. This is why educators go to such lengths to introduce nomenclature schemes.