https://doi.org/10.15255/KUI.2017.055
Published: Kem. Ind. 67 (3-4) (2018) 145–148
Paper reference number: KUI-55/2017
Paper type: Professional paper / Chemistry in Teaching
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How to Enumerate Constitutional Isomers of Alkanes

N. Raos

Abstract

Enumeration of isomers, especially isomers of alkanes, is very instructive in teaching organic chemistry because it helps the students to gain greater proficiency in writing chemical formulas and systematic chemical names, as well as familiarizes them with the vast diversity of molecular structures. In this paper, a systematic approach for the construction of constitutional (structural) isomers of alkanes is described. It is based on grouping the isomers by their maximal chain length. The best way to apply this in the classroom is to use short sticks, e.g. matches, for the construction of alkane kenograms. The task of isomer construction should be organized as teamwork in a competitive manner. The approach is illustrated by enumerating isomers from C₄ to C₉.

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Keywords

chemistry education, hydrocarbons, constitutional formulas, chemical graph theory