Step 1: Identify the longest continuous carbon chain in the molecule. This chain will serve as the parent chain, and its length determines the base name of the compound (e.g., methane, ethane, propane, etc.).
Step 2: Determine the functional groups attached to the parent chain. Functional groups such as alcohols (-OH), ketones (C=O), or halides (e.g., -Cl, -Br) influence the naming and priority in nomenclature.
Step 3: Assign numbers to the carbon atoms in the parent chain, starting from the end closest to the highest-priority functional group. This ensures the functional group gets the lowest possible number.
Step 4: Name the substituents (e.g., methyl, ethyl, propyl) and functional groups, and indicate their positions on the parent chain using the assigned numbers. Combine these names with the base name of the parent chain.
Step 5: Assemble the full name of the compound by following IUPAC rules: list substituents in alphabetical order, include prefixes for multiple identical substituents (e.g., di-, tri-), and ensure the name reflects the correct numbering and priority of functional groups.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Nomenclature
Nomenclature in organic chemistry refers to the systematic naming of chemical compounds based on established rules. The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) provides guidelines to ensure that each compound has a unique and descriptive name, which reflects its structure and functional groups. Understanding nomenclature is essential for accurately identifying and communicating about organic compounds.
Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. Common functional groups include hydroxyl (-OH), carboxyl (-COOH), and amino (-NH2) groups. Recognizing functional groups is crucial for predicting the behavior and reactivity of organic compounds, as they largely determine the compound's properties.
Structural isomers are compounds that have the same molecular formula but differ in the arrangement of atoms. This can include variations in the connectivity of atoms or the presence of different functional groups. Understanding structural isomerism is important because it can significantly affect the physical and chemical properties of the compounds, leading to different reactivities and applications.