Chapter 23, Problem 47R

To determine

To explain: The difference in structures of propyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol with same molecular formula.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Compounds that have identical chemical formulas but different structures are termed as isomers.

The structure of propyl alcohol $\left({\text{C}}_3{\text{H}}_8\text{O}\right)$ is as follows:

The structure of isopropyl alcohol $\left({\text{C}}_3{\text{H}}_8\text{O}\right)$ is as follows:

Conclusion:

The first structure is termed as primary alcohol while the second structure is termed as secondary alcohol.