Draw the structure for each of the following:
a. isopropyl alcohol

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the name 'isopropyl alcohol'. The 'isopropyl' group refers to a branched alkyl group with the formula \( \text{C}_3\text{H}_7 \), where the central carbon is attached to two methyl groups (\( \text{CH}_3 \)) and one hydrogen.
2. Step 2: Recognize that 'alcohol' indicates the presence of a hydroxyl group (\( \text{-OH} \)) attached to a carbon atom.
3. Step 3: Place the hydroxyl group (\( \text{-OH} \)) on the central carbon of the isopropyl group. This ensures the structure corresponds to isopropyl alcohol.
4. Step 4: Draw the complete structure. The central carbon is bonded to the hydroxyl group (\( \text{-OH} \)), two methyl groups (\( \text{CH}_3 \)), and one hydrogen atom.
5. Step 5: Verify the structure by ensuring it matches the molecular formula \( \text{C}_3\text{H}_8\text{O} \) and adheres to the rules of bonding in organic chemistry.

Key Concepts

Alcohol Functional Group

Alcohols are organic compounds characterized by the presence of one or more hydroxyl (-OH) groups attached to a carbon atom. This functional group is responsible for the properties of alcohols, including their ability to form hydrogen bonds, which affects their boiling points and solubility in water.

Isopropyl Alcohol Structure

Isopropyl alcohol, also known as 2-propanol, has the molecular formula C3H8O. Its structure consists of a three-carbon chain with a hydroxyl group attached to the second carbon. This arrangement gives isopropyl alcohol its characteristic properties and makes it a common solvent and disinfectant.

Drawing Organic Structures

Drawing organic structures involves representing the arrangement of atoms in a molecule using lines to indicate bonds. In the case of isopropyl alcohol, it is important to accurately depict the carbon backbone and the hydroxyl group to convey the molecule's connectivity and functional characteristics.