Give the Lewis structure for C2H4O. This formula has at least two possible isomers. Include those structures.

The molecular formula C₂H₄O corresponds to two primary isomers: ethylene glycol (or acetaldehyde) and vinyl alcohol. Let’s explore both structures.

1. Acetaldehyde

In the structure of acetaldehyde, we have:

• Two carbon atoms (C)
• Four hydrogen atoms (H)
• One oxygen atom (O), which is part of a carbonyl group (C=O)

The Lewis structure can be depicted as:

   H   H
    \ / 
     C   
    //\ 
   O   C 
   |   | 
   H   H 

In this structure, one carbon atom is double-bonded to oxygen (C=O), while the other carbon is single-bonded to a hydrogen atom and to the carbon that is double-bonded to oxygen.

2. Vinyl Alcohol

The second isomer is vinyl alcohol. In this structure, we have:

• Two carbon atoms (C)
• Four hydrogen atoms (H)
• One oxygen atom (O), which is part of a hydroxyl group (–OH)

The Lewis structure for vinyl alcohol can be represented as:

   H   OH
    \ / 
     C   
    /  \ 
   C   
   |   
   H   

In this case, one carbon atom is double-bonded to another carbon atom, while the second carbon is bonded to a hydroxyl group (–OH), indicating that this compound forms a different functional group than acetaldehyde.

Overall, C₂H₄O can exist as multiple isomers, with acetaldehyde and vinyl alcohol being two of the most common. Each structure has distinct properties and reactivities, showcasing the richness of organic chemistry.