Give the common name for each of the following:
a. CH₃−CH₂−CH₂−O−CH₂−CH₂−CH₃

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the functional group in the compound. The structure contains an oxygen atom bonded to two alkyl groups (CH₃−CH₂−CH₂− and CH₂−CH₂−CH₃), which indicates it is an ether.
2. Recall the naming convention for ethers. In common naming, ethers are named by listing the two alkyl groups attached to the oxygen atom in alphabetical order, followed by the word 'ether'.
3. Determine the names of the alkyl groups. The first group (CH₃−CH₂−CH₂−) is called 'propyl', and the second group (CH₂−CH₂−CH₃) is also called 'propyl'.
4. Since both alkyl groups are the same, the prefix 'di-' is used to indicate this repetition. Combine the prefix with the alkyl group name to get 'dipropyl'.
5. Combine the alkyl group name with the word 'ether' to form the common name. The common name of the compound is 'dipropyl ether'.

Key Concepts

Alkane Structure

Alkanes are hydrocarbons consisting only of carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) atoms, connected by single bonds. The structure of alkanes follows the general formula CnH2n+2, where 'n' is the number of carbon atoms. In the given compound, the presence of a straight-chain structure indicates it is an alkane, specifically a linear arrangement of carbon atoms.

Ether Functional Group

Ethers are organic compounds characterized by an oxygen atom connected to two alkyl or aryl groups. The general formula for ethers is R-O-R', where R and R' represent the hydrocarbon chains. In the provided structure, the oxygen atom links two carbon chains, indicating that the compound is an ether, specifically a symmetrical ether due to the identical carbon chains on either side of the oxygen.

Nomenclature in Organic Chemistry

Nomenclature in organic chemistry refers to the systematic naming of chemical compounds based on their structure and functional groups. The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) provides rules for naming compounds, which include identifying the longest carbon chain and the functional groups present. For the given compound, understanding these rules will help in determining its common name, which is crucial for effective communication in chemistry.