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Ch.21 - Organic Chemistry
Chapter 21, Problem 99

Draw the structure that corresponds to each name and indicate which structures can exist as stereoisomers. a. 3-methyl-1-pentene b. 3,5-dimethyl-2-hexene c. 3-propyl-2-hexene

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1
Identify the main carbon chain and the position of the double bond: For 3,5-dimethyl-2-hexene, the longest carbon chain has 6 carbons (hexene) and the double bond starts at carbon 2.
Number the carbon chain from the end nearest the double bond to correctly place the substituents: Start numbering from the end of the chain closest to the double bond, ensuring carbon 2 is part of the double bond.
Add the methyl groups at the correct positions: Attach methyl groups to carbon 3 and carbon 5 of the hexene chain.
Draw the structure: Combine all the information to draw the complete structural formula of 3,5-dimethyl-2-hexene, showing all carbon and hydrogen atoms and the placement of the double bond and methyl groups.
Determine the possibility of stereoisomers: Since the double bond at carbon 2 introduces restricted rotation, check if there are different groups attached to the carbons of the double bond (C2 and C3) to determine if cis-trans (geometric) isomerism is possible.

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Key Concepts

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

Stereoisomerism

Stereoisomerism refers to the phenomenon where compounds have the same molecular formula and connectivity of atoms but differ in the spatial arrangement of their atoms. This can lead to different physical and chemical properties. In alkenes, stereoisomers can arise due to the presence of a double bond, which restricts rotation and can create cis/trans (geometric) isomers.
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Alkenes and Double Bonds

Alkenes are hydrocarbons that contain at least one carbon-carbon double bond (C=C). The presence of this double bond is crucial for determining the structure and reactivity of the molecule. In the case of 3,5-dimethyl-2-hexene, the double bond's position and the substituents on the carbon chain influence the possible stereoisomers that can form.
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Nomenclature and Structure Drawing

Nomenclature in organic chemistry provides a systematic way to name compounds based on their structure. Understanding how to interpret names like 3,5-dimethyl-2-hexene is essential for drawing the correct structure. This involves identifying the longest carbon chain, the position of substituents, and the location of the double bond, which is key to visualizing the molecule and its stereoisomers.
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