What are chain isomers?

Chain isomers are a type of structural isomerism where the isomers differ in the arrangement of the carbon chain. This means that they have the same molecular formula but differ in the way the carbon atoms are connected to each other. For example, in a chain isomer, one compound might have a straight-chain structure, while another could have a branched-chain structure; both would contain the same number of carbon and hydrogen atoms but arranged differently.

The focus on the arrangement of carbon atoms is key in defining chain isomers, as it directly affects the physical and chemical properties of the compounds. These differences can lead to variations in boiling points, melting points, and reactivity, providing a rich ground for study in organic chemistry. Other types of isomers relate to different aspects such as functional groups or spatial configurations, but chain isomers specifically emphasize the structural changes in the carbon skeleton.