The molecule C3H8O can exist in several different forms, which are known as constitutional isomers. For C3H8O, there are four distinct isomers.
1. **1-Propanol (n-propanol):** This is a straight-chain alcohol where the hydroxyl group (-OH) is attached to the first carbon of the three-carbon chain.
2. **2-Propanol (isopropanol):** Here, the hydroxyl group is attached to the second carbon, making it a secondary alcohol.
3. **Ethyl methyl ether:** This is an ether where an ethyl group (C2H5) and a methyl group (CH3) are bonded to an oxygen atom.
4. **Cyclopropanol:** In this structure, there is a three-membered carbon ring with a hydroxyl group attached, representing another form of this molecular formula.
These isomers differ in their connectivity of atoms, though they share the same molecular formula. Understanding the structural differences can help in various applications, particularly in organic chemistry and industrial processes.