Draw the structure that corresponds with each name.
a. 3-ethyloctane
b. 4-isopropyldecane

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the basic structure of alkanes. Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons with the general formula C_nH_2n+2. They consist of carbon atoms connected by single bonds, with hydrogen atoms filling the remaining valences.
2. Step 2: For 3-ethyloctane, start by drawing the main chain. Octane indicates a straight chain of 8 carbon atoms. Number these carbon atoms from 1 to 8.
3. Step 3: Identify the substituent group for 3-ethyloctane. The 'ethyl' group is a two-carbon substituent, CH₂CH₃. Attach this ethyl group to the third carbon atom in the octane chain.
4. Step 4: For 4-isopropyldecane, begin by drawing the main chain. Decane indicates a straight chain of 10 carbon atoms. Number these carbon atoms from 1 to 10.
5. Step 5: Identify the substituent group for 4-isopropyldecane. The 'isopropyl' group is a three-carbon substituent, (CH₃)₂CH. Attach this isopropyl group to the fourth carbon atom in the decane chain.

Key Concepts

IUPAC Nomenclature

IUPAC nomenclature is a systematic method of naming organic chemical compounds as recommended by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry. It ensures that each compound has a unique name, which describes its structure. Understanding the rules of IUPAC nomenclature is essential for interpreting and drawing chemical structures from names.

Alkane Structure

Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons consisting of carbon and hydrogen atoms with single bonds. Their general formula is CnH2n+2. Recognizing the structure of alkanes, including straight-chain and branched forms, is crucial for drawing compounds like 3-ethyloctane and 4-isopropyldecane, which involve specific branching at designated carbon atoms.

Substituent Positioning

Substituent positioning refers to the location of groups attached to the main carbon chain in a molecule. In organic chemistry, the position is indicated by numbers, which correspond to the carbon atom in the chain. For example, in 3-ethyloctane, the ethyl group is attached to the third carbon, while in 4-isopropyldecane, the isopropyl group is attached to the fourth carbon, affecting the molecule's structure.