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Ch.2 - Atoms, Molecules, and Ions
Chapter 2, Problem 89

Give the name or condensed structural formula, as appropriate.
a.
b.
c. 2-methylheptane
d. 4-ethyl-2,3-dimethyloctane

Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the main carbon chain in the compound. For 2-methylheptane, the main chain is 'heptane', which consists of 7 carbon atoms.
Determine the position and type of substituents on the main chain. In 2-methylheptane, there is a methyl group attached to the second carbon of the heptane chain.
Write the condensed structural formula for 2-methylheptane. Start with the main chain and then add the substituents at their respective positions.
For 4-ethyl-2,3-dimethyloctane, identify the main carbon chain, which is 'octane', consisting of 8 carbon atoms.
Determine the positions and types of substituents for 4-ethyl-2,3-dimethyloctane. There is an ethyl group on the fourth carbon and two methyl groups on the second and third carbons. Write the condensed structural formula accordingly.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Structural Formulas

Structural formulas represent the arrangement of atoms within a molecule, showing how atoms are bonded together. They can be condensed, which simplifies the representation by grouping atoms together, or expanded, which illustrates all bonds explicitly. Understanding structural formulas is essential for identifying the molecular structure and predicting the properties of organic compounds.
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IUPAC Nomenclature

The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) nomenclature provides a systematic method for naming organic compounds. It involves identifying the longest carbon chain, substituents, and their positions to create a unique name. Mastery of IUPAC rules is crucial for accurately naming compounds and communicating chemical information effectively.
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Isomerism

Isomerism refers to the phenomenon where compounds have the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements or spatial orientations. This can lead to variations in physical and chemical properties. Understanding isomerism is important for distinguishing between compounds like 2-methylheptane and 4-ethyl-2,3-dimethyloctane, which have different structures despite having similar formulas.
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