CAIE A Level Chemistry 9701 · An introduction to organic chemistry

An introduction to organic chemistry: describe question

Describe7 marksChallenge

Isomerism is a key concept in organic chemistry. Explain the meaning of isomerism and describe the different types that can occur. In your answer, you must:

  • define structural isomerism and stereoisomerism, explaining the difference between them
  • state the three categories of structural isomerism and give an example of each from compounds of molecular formula CX4HX10O\ce{C4H10O}
  • explain the conditions required for geometrical (cis/trans) isomerism and optical isomerism, and provide one example of each type.
0 words · 7 marks

No account needed for your first marks. Your answer is used only to mark it.

How this question is marked

7 marks, so the mark scheme is looking for about 7 separate creditworthy points. Making the same point twice in different words earns it once.

Describe means: Say what happens or what something is like, in order and with detail. You are not being asked why. If there is data, quote it: name the trend, then give figures with units at the points where it changes.

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