Write the formulas and IUPAC names for the following common alcohols.
d. Diol used as antifreeze (two answers)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the term 'diol'—a diol is an alcohol containing two hydroxyl (-OH) groups. The problem specifies that the diol is used as antifreeze, which hints at common compounds like ethylene glycol and propylene glycol.
2. Step 2: Write the chemical formula for ethylene glycol. Ethylene glycol is a diol with the formula \( \text{C}_2\text{H}_6\text{O}_2 \), where two hydroxyl groups are attached to a two-carbon chain.
3. Step 3: Write the IUPAC name for ethylene glycol. The IUPAC name is 'ethane-1,2-diol,' indicating the hydroxyl groups are attached to the first and second carbons of the ethane backbone.
4. Step 4: Write the chemical formula for propylene glycol. Propylene glycol is a diol with the formula \( \text{C}_3\text{H}_8\text{O}_2 \), where two hydroxyl groups are attached to a three-carbon chain.
5. Step 5: Write the IUPAC name for propylene glycol. The IUPAC name is 'propane-1,2-diol,' indicating the hydroxyl groups are attached to the first and second carbons of the propane backbone.

Key Concepts

Alcohols

Alcohols are organic compounds characterized by the presence of one or more hydroxyl (-OH) groups attached to a carbon atom. They are classified based on the number of hydroxyl groups: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Common examples include methanol and ethanol, which are widely used in various applications, including as solvents and fuels.

Diols

Diols, also known as glycols, are a specific type of alcohol that contain two hydroxyl groups. They can be classified as either vicinal (adjacent) or geminal (on the same carbon). Diols are important in industrial applications, such as antifreeze formulations, where they lower the freezing point of water, enhancing the performance of cooling systems.

IUPAC Nomenclature

IUPAC nomenclature is a systematic method for naming chemical compounds, ensuring that each name conveys specific information about the structure of the molecule. For alcohols, the name typically includes the longest carbon chain followed by the suffix '-ol' to indicate the presence of the hydroxyl group. Understanding this system is essential for accurately identifying and communicating the structure of chemical compounds.