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Structural isomerism

Structural isomerism is a form of isomerism in which molecules with the same molecular formula have atoms bonded together in different orders (as opposed to stereoisomerism.)

Chain isomerism

Chain isomers have components of the chain distinctly ordered to create different structures. Here, 2-ethyl-butane has become 2-methyl-propane:

Chain isomer.png

Position isomerism

Positional isomers occur when a functional group changes position on the chain. In the diagram, 2-hydroxy-propane has become 3-hydroxy-propane:

Position isomer.png

Functional group isomerism

Functional group isomerism is when a functional group splits up and becomes a different group. Here, butanol has become ethoxyethane:

Functional isomer.png

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