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

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Recognize the functional group present in the compound. The structure CH₃−CH₂−O−CH₂−CH₂−CH₃ contains an oxygen atom bonded to two alkyl groups, which identifies it as an ether.
2. Step 2: Recall the naming convention for ethers. In common naming, ethers are named by listing the names of the two alkyl groups attached to the oxygen atom in alphabetical order, followed by the word 'ether'.
3. Step 3: Identify the two alkyl groups in the compound. The group on the left of the oxygen atom is CH₃−CH₂− (ethyl group), and the group on the right is CH₂−CH₂−CH₃ (propyl group).
4. Step 4: Arrange the alkyl groups alphabetically. 'Ethyl' comes before 'propyl' alphabetically.
5. Step 5: Combine the names of the alkyl groups with the word 'ether' to form the common name. The common name of the compound is 'ethyl propyl ether'.

Key Concepts

Ether

An ether is a class of organic compounds characterized by an oxygen atom connected to two alkyl or aryl groups. In the given molecular structure, the presence of the -O- group between two carbon chains indicates that it is an ether. Ethers are commonly used as solvents and in the synthesis of various chemical compounds.

Alkyl Groups

Alkyl groups are derived from alkanes by removing one hydrogen atom, resulting in a group of carbon and hydrogen atoms that can attach to other molecules. In the provided structure, the two carbon chains (CH₃−CH₂− and CH₂−CH₂−CH₃) represent alkyl groups that flank the ether oxygen. Understanding alkyl groups is essential for naming and identifying organic compounds.

IUPAC Nomenclature

IUPAC nomenclature is a systematic method for naming chemical compounds based on their structure and functional groups. For ethers, the naming convention typically involves identifying the alkyl groups attached to the oxygen and combining their names with 'ether.' In this case, the compound can be named as ethyl propyl ether, reflecting the two alkyl groups present.