What is the correct IUPAC name for the compound with the molecular formula $C_3{\mathrm{Cl}}_8$?

• A. 1,1,2,2,3,3-hexachloropropane
• B. 1,1,1,2,2,3,3,3-octachloropropane
• C. Octachloroethane
• D. Trichloroethene

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the parent hydrocarbon chain. The molecular formula C\_3Cl\_8 indicates a propane backbone (3 carbons) fully substituted with chlorine atoms.
2. Step 2: Determine the number of chlorine substituents and their positions on the propane chain. Since there are 8 chlorines, and propane has 3 carbons, chlorines must be distributed across these carbons.
3. Step 3: Assign locants (position numbers) to each chlorine substituent to give the lowest possible numbers according to IUPAC nomenclature rules. This involves numbering the carbon chain from the end that gives the substituents the lowest set of numbers.
4. Step 4: Write the name by listing the number of chlorines at each position, using prefixes like di-, tri-, tetra-, etc., and combining them with the parent name 'propane'. For example, if the chlorines are distributed as 1,1,1,2,2,3,3,3, the name would be '1,1,1,2,2,3,3,3-octachloropropane'.
5. Step 5: Compare the options given with the correct naming conventions and the distribution of chlorines to select the correct IUPAC name.