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Multiple Choice
Which of the following IUPAC names is written correctly?
A
1,1-dimethylpropane
B
3-ethyl-2-methylbutane
C
4-methylhexane
D
2-methylpentane
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the IUPAC naming rules. The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) provides a systematic way to name organic chemical compounds. The name should reflect the structure of the molecule, including the longest carbon chain, substituents, and their positions.
Step 2: Analyze the first option, '1,1-dimethylpropane'. Identify the longest carbon chain, which is propane (3 carbons). The '1,1-dimethyl' indicates two methyl groups attached to the first carbon. However, this structure is actually '2,2-dimethylpropane', also known as neopentane, because the longest chain should be considered as butane (4 carbons) with two methyl groups on the second carbon.
Step 3: Examine the second option, '3-ethyl-2-methylbutane'. Identify the longest carbon chain, which is butane (4 carbons). The substituents are an ethyl group on the third carbon and a methyl group on the second carbon. This name follows the IUPAC rules correctly, as the substituents are listed in alphabetical order and their positions are indicated.
Step 4: Evaluate the third option, '4-methylhexane'. Identify the longest carbon chain, which is hexane (6 carbons). The '4-methyl' indicates a methyl group on the fourth carbon. However, the numbering should start from the end nearest to the substituent, making it '3-methylhexane'.
Step 5: Compare the given correct answer, '2-methylpentane'. Identify the longest carbon chain, which is pentane (5 carbons). The '2-methyl' indicates a methyl group on the second carbon. This name is correct according to IUPAC rules, as it reflects the structure accurately with the longest chain and correct substituent position.