How many isomers can be formed from organic compounds with the formula C 3 H
How many isomers can be formed from organic compounds with the formula C3H8O
- A) 2
- B) 3
- C) 4
- D) 5
Correct Answer: D) 5
Explanation
First, let's understand what isomers are. Isomers are compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural formulas. They have the same number of atoms of each element but different arrangements of these atoms in space.
Now, let's examine the given molecular formula: C\(_3\)H\(_8\)O. We can identify the possible structural isomers by rearranging the carbon and hydrogen atoms around the oxygen atom.
There are two main categories of isomers we can form with this formula: alcohols and ethers.
Alcohols: In an alcohol, the oxygen atom is bonded to one of the carbon atoms through a single bond. The possible alcohol isomers for this molecular formula are:
- 1-Propanol: CH\(_3\)CH\(_2\)CH\(_2\)OH
- 2-Propanol: CH\(_3\)CH(OH)CH\(_3\)
Ethers: In an ether, the oxygen atom is bonded to two carbon atoms through single bonds. The possible ether isomers for this molecular formula are:
- Methoxymethane (dimethyl ether): CH\(_3\)OCH\(_3\)
- Ethoxymethane: CH\(_3\)OCH\(_2\)CH\(_3\)
- 1-Methoxypropane: CH\(_3\)CH\(_2\)OCH\(_3\)
Combining both categories, we have a total of 5 isomers for the molecular formula C\(_3\)H\(_8\)O, which corresponds to the correct answer, Option D.

