Explanation:
- Isomerism refers to the phenomenon where two or more compounds have the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements or spatial orientations.
- 2-chloropropane and 1-chloropropane are both isomers of propane (C3H8) as they have the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements.
- The difference between 2-chloropropane and 1-chloropropane lies in the position of the chlorine atom attached to the carbon chain.
- In 2-chloropropane, the chlorine atom is attached to the second carbon atom of the propane chain, while in 1-chloropropane, the chlorine atom is attached to the first carbon atom.
- This difference in the position of the chlorine atom results in a difference in the structural arrangement of the two isomers.
- Therefore, 2-chloropropane and 1-chloropropane exhibit position isomerism.
- Position isomerism is a type of structural isomerism where the isomers differ in the position of a functional group or substituent on the carbon chain or ring.
- In this case, the chlorine atom acts as the substituent, and its position on the carbon chain determines the isomerism.
- The prefix "2-" or "1-" indicates the position of the substituent on the carbon chain.
- It is important to note that the other types of isomerism mentioned in the options do not apply to 2-chloropropane and 1-chloropropane.
- Chain isomerism refers to isomerism arising due to the difference in the arrangement of carbon atoms in the main chain of a molecule.
- Functional group isomerism refers to isomerism arising due to the difference in the functional group present in a molecule.
- Metamerism is a type of isomerism observed in compounds having the same molecular formula but different alkyl groups attached to a heteroatom.
- Therefore, the correct answer is option B: Position isomerism.