How do structural isomers arise?

1 Answer
Jan 22, 2017

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.