Consider the molecular formula C3H6O

Consider the molecular formula C3H6O

The Correct Answer and Explanation is :

The molecular formula C3H6O represents an organic compound with three carbon atoms, six hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom. There are several possible structural isomers for this molecular formula, as the atoms can be arranged in different ways. Here are the primary possibilities for the structure of this molecule:

1. Acetone (Propan-2-one)

  • Structure: CH3COCH3
  • Description: Acetone is the simplest ketone with the molecular formula C3H6O. In acetone, the oxygen atom is double-bonded to a carbon atom, which is connected to two methyl groups (CH3).
  • Properties: Acetone is a common solvent and is used in industries such as cosmetics and paint removal. It is a colorless, flammable liquid with a characteristic odor. Acetone is miscible with water, alcohol, and ether.

2. Propan-1-ol (1-Propanol)

  • Structure: CH3CH2CH2OH
  • Description: Propan-1-ol, also known as 1-propanol, is an alcohol. It has a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the terminal carbon in the molecule.
  • Properties: Propan-1-ol is used as a solvent in the manufacture of paints, varnishes, and as a disinfectant. It has a slightly higher boiling point compared to acetone due to the presence of hydrogen bonding.

3. Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol)

  • Structure: C2H5OH
  • Description: Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, is a type of alcohol with two carbon atoms, five hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom. It is the most common alcohol in alcoholic beverages, but it can also be used as an industrial solvent, fuel, and in the production of beverages.

Key Concepts:

  • Isomers: The C3H6O molecular formula can represent several isomers because the atoms can be arranged in different ways to form distinct compounds. These isomers differ in structure, but they all contain three carbon atoms, six hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom.
  • Functional Groups: The different isomers mentioned above contain various functional groups, such as a carbonyl group in acetone (ketone) and a hydroxyl group in propan-1-ol (alcohol).

Image:

Here’s a basic illustration of acetone (Propan-2-one) and Propan-1-ol (1-Propanol), which are both isomers of C3H6O.

I will generate an image for you now!

Here is the diagram showing the molecular structures of two isomers of C3H6O: Acetone (Propan-2-one) and Propan-1-ol (1-Propanol). This image clearly illustrates the differences in their structures, where acetone has a ketone functional group and propan-1-ol has an alcohol group.

Scroll to Top