Total number of isomers of `C_4H_10O` will be

Options

A. 4
B. 5
C. 6
D. 7

Answer

To determine the total number of isomers for the molecular formula C₄H₁₀O, we need to consider both alcohols and ethers, as they can both be represented by this formula.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Molecular Formula**:
The molecular formula is C₄H₁₀O. This indicates that we have 4 carbon atoms, 10 hydrogen atoms, and 1 oxygen atom.

**Hint**: Remember that isomers are compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements.

2. **Consider Alcohol Isomers**:
- **Straight Chain Alcohols**:
- 1-butanol: CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₂OH
- 2-butanol: CH₃CH₂CHOHCH₃
- **Branched Chain Alcohols**:
- Isobutanol (2-methyl-1-propanol): (CH₃)₂CHCH₂OH
- tert-Butanol (2-methyl-2-propanol): (CH₃)₃COH

**Hint**: Look for different positions of the hydroxyl (OH) group and consider branching of the carbon chain.

3. **Count Alcohol Isomers**:
From the above, we have identified 4 alcohol isomers.

**Hint**: Keep track of each unique structure you create to ensure you count all possibilities.

4. **Consider Ether Isomers**:
- **Symmetrical Ether**:
- Diethyl ether: CH₃CH₂OCH₂CH₃
- **Unsymmetrical Ethers**:
- Ethyl methyl ether: CH₃OCH₂CH₃
- Isopropyl methyl ether: (CH₃)₂CHOCH₃

**Hint**: Ethers can be symmetrical or unsymmetrical; consider how the carbon chains can be arranged around the oxygen atom.

5. **Count Ether Isomers**:
From the above, we have identified 3 ether isomers.

**Hint**: Ensure that you differentiate between symmetrical and unsymmetrical ethers when counting.

6. **Total Isomers Calculation**:
Now, we add the number of alcohol isomers and ether isomers together:
- Alcohols: 4
- Ethers: 3
- Total = 4 (alcohols) + 3 (ethers) = 7 isomers.

**Hint**: Double-check your counts to ensure accuracy in your total.

### Final Answer:
The total number of isomers of C₄H₁₀O is **7**.