Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Consider the following isomers, Butane and isobutane, they have different structures and thus different chemical properties. Butane is a good fuel whereas isobutane is good as a refridgerant. Why is one good for one thing and not the other thing? Is it possible to predict the properties of a molecule based on their structure? If so, how?

Hi - It sounds like this might be a homework question? If you are working on a student science project related to this, can you tell us more about the project you are doing?

Amy
Science Buddies

Hi - this isn't a homework question, and also not a science project question. Just a question about how scientists can predict the molecular properties can be predicted.