Question

(a) Why does the element carbon from a large number of carbon compounds?
(b) Write down the structures and names of two isomers of butane ($C_4{H}_{10}$)

Answer 1

(a) The element, carbon, forms a large number of carbon compounds because of its property of self-combination (catenation). The ability of one carbon atom to combine with the many other carbon atoms to form long chains produces a large number of carbon compounds. This long chain of carbon atoms supports the other atoms to get attached to it in a number of ways due to which a large number of carbon compounds are obtained.

(b) The structure and names of two isomers of butane are:
i) normal-butane:

ii) iso-butane: