Which of the following is the correct IUPAC name for the compound with the structure ${\mathrm{CH}}_3-{\mathrm{CH}}_2-{\mathrm{CH}}_2-{\mathrm{CH}}_2-{\mathrm{CH}}_3$?

• A. Pentane
• B. Propane
• C. Butane
• D. Hexane

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the structure given: it is a straight chain of carbon atoms connected by single bonds, represented as \(\mathrm{CH_3 - CH_2 - CH_2 - CH_2 - CH_3}\).
2. Count the number of carbon atoms in the longest continuous chain. Here, there are 5 carbon atoms connected in a row.
3. Recall the IUPAC nomenclature for alkanes, where the prefix indicates the number of carbons: 1 carbon = methane, 2 = ethane, 3 = propane, 4 = butane, 5 = pentane, 6 = hexane, and so on.
4. Since the chain has 5 carbons and only single bonds, the correct base name is 'pentane'.
5. Verify that there are no branches or functional groups that would modify the name; since none are present, the correct IUPAC name for the compound is 'pentane'.