Compound which does not belong to the homologous series

Options

A. `CH_(4)O`
B. `C_(4)H_(12)O`
C. `C_(2)H_(6)O`
D. `C_(3)H_(8)O`

Explanation

To determine which compound does not belong to the homologous series, we first need to understand what a homologous series is. A homologous series is a group of organic compounds that have the same functional group and differ from each other by a CH2 unit.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Compounds**: We are given four compounds:
- CH4O
- C4H12O
- C2H6O
- C3H8O

2. **Choose a Basic Compound**: Start with the compound that has the least number of carbon atoms, which is CH4O.

3. **Generate the Homologous Series**:
- The first compound is CH4O.
- To find the next compound, add a CH2 group:
- CH4O → C2H6O (adding CH2)
- Adding another CH2 group:
- C2H6O → C3H8O (adding CH2)
- Adding one more CH2 group:
- C3H8O → C4H10O (adding CH2)

4. **List the Generated Series**: The generated homologous series from CH4O is:
- CH4O
- C2H6O
- C3H8O
- C4H10O

5. **Compare with Given Options**: Now, let's compare the generated series with the given options:
- CH4O (matches)
- C2H6O (matches)
- C3H8O (matches)
- C4H12O (does not match, as the correct next compound should be C4H10O)

6. **Conclusion**: The compound that does not belong to the homologous series is C4H12O.

### Final Answer:
The compound which does not belong to the homologous series is **C4H12O**.

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