How does isomeric butane differ in physical properties?

1 Answer
anor277
Jun 28, 2017

Well, as you say, butane, #C_4H_10#, has two #"structural isomers."#

Explanation:

So we take the formula #C_4H_10#.......there are two ways which the carbon chain may be connected......

#"H"_3"CCH"_2"CH"_2"CH"_3# #"n-butane"#, whose normal boiling point is #-1# #""^@C#.

#"H"_3"C(CH"_3")CH"_2"CH"_3# #"isobutane"#, whose normal boiling point is #-11.7# #""^@C#.

And if you tap an oil well, certainly you will get the isomeric butanes (and higher alkanes) in quantity.

As is typical, the hydrocarbon with the LONGEST hydrocarbyl chain is the LEAST volatile.......

What are the IUPAC names of these isomeric butanes?

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