What is the correct IUPAC name for the following structure: ${\mathrm{CH}}_3-\mathrm{CH}\left({\mathrm{CH}}_3\right)-\mathrm{CH}\left({\mathrm{CH}}_3\right)-{\mathrm{CH}}_2-{\mathrm{CH}}_3$?

• A. 3,3-Dimethylpentane
• B. 2,2-Dimethylpentane
• C. 2,3-Dimethylpentane
• D. 3-Ethyl-2-methylbutane

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the longest continuous carbon chain in the given structure. This chain determines the base name of the compound (e.g., pentane for a 5-carbon chain).
2. Number the carbon atoms in the longest chain from the end nearest to the substituents (branches) to give the substituents the lowest possible numbers.
3. Locate and identify the substituents attached to the main chain. In this case, look for methyl groups (–CH3) attached to the main chain carbons.
4. Assign numbers to the substituents based on their position on the main chain, and determine if there are multiple identical substituents (e.g., two methyl groups on the same carbon). Use prefixes like di-, tri- accordingly.
5. Combine the substituent names and their positions with the base name of the longest chain to form the full IUPAC name, ensuring substituents are listed alphabetically and numbers are separated by commas and hyphens as per IUPAC rules.