Concept:Structural isomers have the same molecular formula but different arrangements of atoms.
Explanation:Pentane has the molecular formula
C5H12.
It forms three structural isomers (chain isomers).
The first is n-pentane – a straight chain of five carbon atoms.
The second is 2-methylbutane – a branched chain with a methyl group attached to the second carbon.
The third is 2,2-dimethylpropane – a highly branched structure with two methyl groups on the central carbon.
Each isomer has the same number of carbon and hydrogen atoms but a different carbon skeleton.
These are the only possible chain arrangements for
C5H12.
No other distinct structural isomer exists for pentane.
Answer:3
