Butane vs Isobutane - Isomer Relationship
What is the relationship between Butane and Isobutane?
Same molecular formula (C₄H₁₀) but different connectivity. Butane is a straight chain; isobutane is branched.
| Molecule A | Butane (C₄H₁₀) |
| Molecule B | Isobutane (C₄H₁₀) |
| Relationship Type | constitutional |
| Difficulty | beginner |
Introduction
Two molecules with the same formula but different structures. Are they the same compound?
Formula Comparison
Both molecules have the formula C₄H₁₀ — 4 carbons and 10 hydrogens. Same formula means they could be isomers.
Connectivity Analysis
Butane has a straight chain: C–C–C–C. Isobutane has a branched structure: one central carbon bonded to three others. The bonding sequence is different.
Spatial Relationship
Since the connectivity is different, we don’t need to check spatial arrangement. Different connectivity = constitutional isomers.
Chirality Check
Neither molecule has a chiral center. Both are achiral.
Classification
These are constitutional isomers (also called structural isomers). Same formula, different connectivity.
Side-by-side 3D comparison with sync rotation, difference highlighting, and guided classification.
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Stereochemistry Explorer
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