Consider all the possible structural (constitutional) isomers of the alkyl halide with the molecular — Haloalkanes and Haloarenes Chemistry Question
Question
Consider all the possible structural (constitutional) isomers of the alkyl halide with the molecular formula $C_5H_{11}Br$. How many of these structural isomers possess at least one stereocenter (chiral carbon)?
💡 Solution & Explanation
First, determine all structural isomers of $C_5H_{11}Br$: 1) 1-bromopentane (achiral) 2) 2-bromopentane (chiral at C2) 3) 3-bromopentane (achiral) 4) 1-bromo-2-methylbutane (chiral at C2) 5) 2-bromo-2-methylbutane (achiral) 6) 3-bromo-2-methylbutane (chiral at C3, which is bonded to $-Br$, $-CH_3$, $-H$, and $-CH(CH_3)_2$) 7) 1-bromo-3-methylbutane (achiral) 8) 1-bromo-2,2-dimethylpropane (achiral). Out of the 8 structural isomers, exactly 3 possess a chiral carbon (2-bromopentane, 1-bromo-2-methylbutane, and 3-bromo-2-methylbutane).