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Ch.11 Introduction to Organic Chemistry: Hydrocarbons
Timberlake - Chemistry: An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry 13th Edition
Timberlake13th EditionChemistry: An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological ChemistryISBN: 9780134421353Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 11, Problem 17d

Draw the line-angle formula for each of the following:
d. 2,3-dichlorohexane

Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the structure of the compound. The name '2,3-dichlorohexane' indicates that the parent chain is hexane, which consists of six carbon atoms connected in a straight chain with single bonds (alkane).
Step 2: Identify the substituents. The '2,3-dichloro' prefix means there are two chlorine (Cl) atoms attached to the second and third carbon atoms of the hexane chain.
Step 3: Draw the backbone of the molecule. Represent the six carbon atoms in a zigzag pattern, which is the standard way to depict a straight-chain alkane in a line-angle formula. Each vertex represents a carbon atom, and the ends of the chain also represent carbon atoms.
Step 4: Add the substituents. Place a chlorine atom (Cl) on the second and third carbon atoms of the chain. Remember that each carbon atom can form four bonds, so ensure the remaining bonds are satisfied with hydrogen atoms (not explicitly shown in line-angle formulas).
Step 5: Verify the structure. Double-check that the molecule has six carbon atoms in the main chain, two chlorine atoms on the correct carbons, and that all carbons have four bonds in total. This ensures the structure is correct and follows the rules of organic chemistry.

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Key Concepts

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

Line-Angle Formula

The line-angle formula, also known as the skeletal formula, is a shorthand representation of organic molecules. In this format, vertices represent carbon atoms, and lines represent bonds between them. Hydrogen atoms are typically omitted for carbon atoms, as they are implied by the tetravalency of carbon. This method simplifies the visualization of complex structures, making it easier to identify functional groups and molecular connectivity.
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Dichloro Compounds

Dichloro compounds are organic molecules that contain two chlorine atoms substituting hydrogen atoms in a hydrocarbon chain. The position of these chlorine atoms is crucial for understanding the compound's reactivity and properties. In the case of 2,3-dichlorohexane, the chlorines are located on the second and third carbon atoms of a six-carbon chain, which influences the molecule's stereochemistry and potential isomers.
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Hexane Structure

Hexane is a straight-chain alkane with six carbon atoms, represented by the molecular formula C6H14. Its structure serves as the backbone for derivatives like dichlorohexane. Understanding the hexane structure is essential for accurately drawing its derivatives, as it provides the framework upon which substituents, such as chlorine atoms, are added. The linear arrangement of hexane allows for various substitution patterns, affecting the compound's physical and chemical properties.
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