How would you find all the isomers of the formula C4H8O2 (ester)?

1 Answer
Nov 23, 2015

There are four isomeric esters with the formula "C"_4"H"_8"O"_2.

Explanation:

First, draw all the esters of a one-carbon acid. These are

Propyl formate

"HCOOCH"_2"CH"_2"CH"_3

and

Isopropyl formate

"HCOOCH"("CH"_3)_2

Then draw all the esters of a two-carbon acid:

Ethyl acetate

"CH"_3"COOCH"_2"CH"_3

Finally, draw all the esters of a three-carbon acid:

Methyl propionate

"CH"_3"CH"_2"COOCH"_3

And that's it!