How many structural isomers can you draw for pentane?

Explanation

The molecular formula of pentane is `C_(5)H_(12)`. It has 5 carbon atoms. We have to arrange these 5 carbon atoms in different possible ways to obtain all the isomers of pentane
(i) First we write ll the 5 carbon atoms in one straight chain [see Figure 24 (a) ]. This will give us an isomer called n- pentane (normal -pentane).

(ii) Next we write 4 carbon atoms in the straight chain and 1 carbon atom in the side chain [ see Figure 24(b)]. This will give us a second isomer called isopentane.
(iii) And finally we put 3 carbon atoms in the straight chain and the remaining 2 carbon atoms in two side chains [see Figure 24(c )]. This gives us a third isomer of pentane called neopentane. We cannot have any more arrangements of 5 carbon atoms of pentane. So, only 3 structural isomers are possible for pentane.