126k views
2 votes
Neopentane chemically nonequivalent hydrogens __________?

Options:
A) Have similar reactivity
B) Exhibit isomerism
C) Form a stable compound
D) Are inert

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

Neopentane has chemically equivalent hydrogens due to its symmetrical structure, which results in all hydrogens having similar reactivity, not exhibiting isomerism effects, or differing reactivities.

Step-by-step explanation:

Neopentane, also referred to as 2,2-dimethylpropane, is a branched-chain alkane with the molecular formula C5H12. In the context of the question, 'Neopentane chemically nonequivalent hydrogens' generally refers to the concept that not all hydrogen atoms in the molecule are in the same chemical environment, and therefore do not have equivalent reactivity. Given the symmetry of neopentane, it is considered to have equivalent hydrogens because of its highly symmetrical structure.

For the options presented, option A) 'Have similar reactivity' best fits the description for neopentane's hydrogens due to the molecular symmetry.

Neopentane's central carbon atom is connected to four methyl groups, making the molecule highly symmetrical and resulting in equivalent chemical environments for all hydrogens. Therefore, the hydrogens in neopentane do not exhibit distinct levels of reactivity as they might in other isomers of pentane.

The production of isomers, such as isopentane and neopentane, is a common phenomenon in organic chemistry where molecules with the same molecular formula have different structures and physical properties.

However, in the case of neopentane, its symmetry yields nonequivalent hydrogens due to their similar reactivity. This situation contradicts the potential for isomerism leading to various reactivities among different hydrogen atoms.

User Justin Putney
by
8.0k points