Question:medium

Identify the isomerism exhibited by methoxyethane and propan-1-ol.

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Alcohols and ethers with the same carbon count are classic textbook examples of functional group isomers. They always share the general formula $C_nH_{2n+2}O$.
Updated On: Jun 4, 2026
  • Position isomerism
  • Chain isomerism
  • Functional group isomerism
  • Metamerism
Show Solution

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Find the molecular formula of each compound.
Write both structures clearly. Methoxyethane is $CH_3-CH_2-O-CH_3$. Propan-1-ol is $CH_3-CH_2-CH_2-OH$.

Step 2: Count the atoms.
Both have 3 carbon atoms, 8 hydrogen atoms, and 1 oxygen atom. So both are $C_3H_8O$.

Step 3: Note the rule for isomers.
Isomers are compounds with the same molecular formula but different structures. Here both share $C_3H_8O$, so they are isomers.

Step 4: Look at the functional groups.
Methoxyethane has an ether link, the $-O-$ in the middle of the chain. Propan-1-ol has an alcohol group, the $-OH$ at the end.

Step 5: Match to the right name.
When two isomers have different functional groups, the type is called functional group isomerism.

Step 6: Conclusion.
An ether and an alcohol with the same formula are a classic pair of functional group isomers. \[ \boxed{\text{Functional group isomerism (Option 3)}} \]
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