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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct IUPAC name for the compound with the molecular formula C4H10?
A
Isobutane
B
Propane
C
Butane
D
Pentane
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the molecular formula given in the problem: C₄H₁₀.
Determine the number of carbon atoms in the compound. The formula C₄H₁₀ indicates there are 4 carbon atoms.
Recall the IUPAC naming convention for alkanes, which is based on the number of carbon atoms: 1 carbon is methane, 2 carbons is ethane, 3 carbons is propane, 4 carbons is butane, and so on.
Match the number of carbon atoms (4) to the corresponding alkane name. According to IUPAC rules, a straight-chain alkane with 4 carbon atoms is named 'butane'.
Verify that the molecular formula C₄H₁₀ corresponds to butane, as it is a saturated hydrocarbon with no branches or additional functional groups.