My gen chem textbook said there are two types is isomers, structural and stereoi

Question

My gen chem textbook said there are two types is isomers, structural and stereoisomers, and that the structural isomers consist of either coordination or linkage isomer. But the organic chem textbook said the type types of isomers are constitutional and stereoisomers. So I'm guessing structural and constitutional isomers are the same thing? But the example of ethanol and dimethyl ether for constitutional isomer doesn't fit into linkage or coordination category describe by the other book, which is geared more toward transition metal coordination complexes. So does that mean structural and constitutional isomers are not the same thing with different name?

Explanation / Answer

Yes, constitutional and structural isomers are the same. For organic compounds, these two isomers are same. For example, ethanol and dimethyl ether. In these two compounds there is a different structural arrangement. So we can call it as constitutional or structural isomers.

When it comes to transition metal co-ordination compounds, you have to talk about the central metal atom and the arrangement of other groups or atoms around that central metal atom. So, there is new isomers called linkage or co-ordination isomers arises.

In ethanol, ether there is no central metal atom, so we call it as constitutional isomers. whereever metal atom with ligands appear, we use the term linkage isomers. so structural and constitutional isomers are same

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