Which of the following pair of organic compounds shows position isomerism?
Correct answer: B. CH3-CH2-CH2-OH and CH3-CH(OH)CH3
- A. CH3-CH2-CHO and CH3-CO-CH3
- B. CH3-CH2-CH2-OH and CH3-CH(OH)CH3
- C. C2H5-O-C2H5 and CH3-O-C3H7
- D. CH3-COOH and HCOOCH3
Explanation
Yes, CH₃-CH₂-CH₂-OH (1-propanol) and CH₃-CH(OH)CH₃ (2-propanol or isopropanol) are examples of position isomers. They have the same molecular formula, C₃H₈O, but differ in the position of the hydroxyl (OH) group along the carbon chain. In 1-propanol, the hydroxyl group is attached to the terminal carbon of the three-carbon chain: CH₃-CH₂-CH₂-OH In 2-propanol or isopropanol, the hydroxyl group is attached to the middle carbon of the three-carbon chain: CH₃-CH(OH)CH₃. The variation in the position of the hydroxyl group in these isomers illustrates position isomerism. .Hence option B is correct.
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About Fundamental Principles of Organic Chemistry
Organic chemistry begins with carbon compounds classified by carbon skeleton, saturation and functional group. Work includes identifying groups such as hydroxyl, carbonyl, carboxyl and amino, applying basic nomenclature, and distinguishing structural, geometric and optical isomers, where the same molecular formula does not necessarily mean the same structure or properties.
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