Functional Isomerism

Functional isomerism is a type of structural isomerism where compounds have the same molecular formula but different functional groups. This means that the atoms are arranged differently, resulting in different properties and reactivity.

Compounds that can exhibit functional isomerism

Among the given compounds, only C3H8O can exhibit functional isomerism due to the presence of different functional groups.

Explanation

C2H8: This is the molecular formula of ethane, which is a saturated hydrocarbon. It does not have any functional group and cannot exhibit functional isomerism.

C3H8O: This is the molecular formula of propanol, which has three isomers - propan-1-ol, propan-2-ol, and methoxyethane. Propan-1-ol has a hydroxyl (-OH) functional group attached to the first carbon atom, while propan-2-ol has it attached to the second carbon atom. Methoxyethane, also known as propyl methyl ether, has an ether (-O-) functional group instead of the hydroxyl group.

C3H7Cl: This is the molecular formula of 1-chloropropane, which is a halogenated hydrocarbon. It does not have any functional group and cannot exhibit functional isomerism.

C5H12: This is the molecular formula of pentane, which is a saturated hydrocarbon. It does not have any functional group and cannot exhibit functional isomerism.

Conclusion

Out of the given compounds, only C3H8O can exhibit functional isomerism due to the presence of different functional groups.