Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Structural Isomers
Structural isomers are compounds that have the same molecular formula but differ in the arrangement of atoms within the molecule. This can include variations in the connectivity of the atoms, leading to different structural frameworks. For example, butane and isobutane are structural isomers, as they have the same formula (C4H10) but different structures.
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Molecular Formula
A molecular formula represents the number and types of atoms in a molecule, providing a concise way to express its composition. It does not indicate the arrangement of atoms, which is crucial for identifying isomers. For instance, both C2H6O and C2H6S have the same molecular formula but represent different compounds, highlighting the importance of structure in chemistry.
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Isomerism
Isomerism refers to the phenomenon where two or more compounds have the same molecular formula but different structural or spatial arrangements. This can lead to distinct physical and chemical properties among the isomers. Understanding isomerism is essential for distinguishing between structural isomers and other types, such as stereoisomers, which differ in spatial orientation.
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