so i have and ipod touch 2nd gen

There maybe older apps that you can still get for this iPod, but you will need an older version of iTunes onna computer to install a more recent version of an app through iTunes, using your Apple ID and password.

If you need apps for that iPad, if you have a computer with an older version of iTunes (version 12.6.3 or earlier ), you can try downloading the recent app/s, by accessing the iOS App Store, through iTunes, and then, download the recent version of the app/s you like to use on your iPod, to iTunes on your computer first.

IF you own a computer with an older version of iTunes already on it, try using that version as an 2nd gen iPod Touch does not need the latest iTunes version.

If you have a computer, but NO iTunes on it, here is a link to the older 12.6.3 version for download found in this Apple weblink.

Older versions of iTunes found here.

https://support.apple.com/downloads/itunes

iTunes 12.6.3 here.

https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT208079

DO NOT download the latest version of iTunes (version 12.7.x) as there is no more support for saving apps in iTunes under the most recent versions.

Then, back on your iPod, you can try to download the latest app from the iOS App Store and if the developer/s has/have left an older, compatible version of their app/s on Apple's app servers, then you will receive a small window pop-up prompt that states that there is an older version of the app that is compatible with your device.. Would you like to download this version now.

Tap the OK button just below the prompt.

If you are successful in getting apps on this iPad, consider looking for more “up to date”, third party iOS web browsers for that version of iOS.

Some third party web browser developers supported their web browser on iOS 5.1.1 for a long time and are more up to date than the iOS 5.1.1 version of the Safari Web Browser.

If you use iTunes on a computer, some third party iOS web browsers that may still have older versions for iOS 4.2.1

FYI,

Not every app you attempt to download will have an iOS 4.2.1 compatible version. For older apps that may still have an older iOS version available, the lowest compatible iOS version of an app is iOS 4.2.1.

The search for iOS 4.2.1 compatible apps will be trial and error, but they are out there.

This website may help you locate the apps you can use with your 2nd gen iPod Touch.

http://findoldapps.com/us/any_category/4.2.1/ipod/updated_date/desc/30/1

Good Luck!