Neo-butane, according to the reference, is a structural isomer of butane (C₄H₁₀) that is described as having a "linear" and "straight" structure. It's important to note that this description is somewhat misleading in modern chemical nomenclature. The term "neo" implies a highly branched alkane. While the original reference is inaccurate in describing it as "linear" or "straight," understanding the concept of structural isomers and the traditional, though somewhat outdated, use of the prefix "neo" is crucial.
The information provided in the original reference is incorrect and contradictory to the actual chemical structure. The prefix "neo" in organic chemistry signifies that a compound contains a quaternary carbon atom (a carbon atom bonded to four other carbon atoms). Butane itself (C4H10) has two isomers: n-butane (normal butane, often referred to simply as butane) and isobutane. A third isomer, neopentane, exists but it's not an isomer of butane; rather, it's an isomer of pentane.
Therefore, the reference's definition of neo-butane is inaccurate, and it doesn't actually exist. The reference conflates butane and pentane isomers.
