CHAIN ISOMER Meaning and
Definition
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A chain isomer is a type of organic compound isomer that occurs when the arrangement of carbon atoms within the molecule differs, resulting in a different chemical structure. Specifically, chain isomers differ in the pattern in which carbon atoms are connected, while maintaining the same number and types of atoms. These isomers exhibit distinct physical and chemical properties due to their varying structural arrangements.
In a chain isomer, the carbon skeleton may contain straight chains, branched chains, or cyclic structures. The differences arise from the position of the functional groups, substituents, or double bonds within the carbon chain. This structural variability leads to differences in chemical reactivity, boiling point, melting point, solubility, and other properties.
For example, consider butane and isobutane. Butane consists of a straight chain of four carbon atoms, whereas isobutane contains a branched chain with three carbon atoms forming a branch. Although both compounds share the same chemical formula, their physical properties differ due to the dissimilar arrangement of atoms. Additionally, chain isomers can influence the compound's biological activity, as different arrangements may affect how the compound interacts with enzymes or receptors within a living organism.
Overall, chain isomerism represents an important concept in organic chemistry, highlighting the significance of structural variation in determining the properties and behavior of organic compounds.
Common Misspellings for CHAIN ISOMER
- xhain isomer
- vhain isomer
- fhain isomer
- dhain isomer
- cgain isomer
- cbain isomer
- cnain isomer
- cjain isomer
- cuain isomer
- cyain isomer
- chzin isomer
- chsin isomer
- chwin isomer
- chqin isomer
- chaun isomer
- chajn isomer
- chakn isomer
- chaon isomer
- cha9n isomer
- cha8n isomer
Etymology of CHAIN ISOMER
The etymology of the word "chain isomer" can be traced back to the combination of two key words: "chain" and "isomer".
1. Chain: From the Old English word "cægan", which meant "a series of links or rings connected or fitted together". Over time, the word evolved, and eventually, in the 15th century, the modern term "chain" emerged, referring to a series of interconnected links or objects.
2. Isomer: Derived from the Greek prefix "iso-" meaning "equal" or "same", and the Greek word "meros" meaning "part". The term "isomer" was first coined in 1830 and refers to molecules with the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements or spatial orientation.
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