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Multiple Choice
What is the correct IUPAC name for the compound with the structure ?
A
Propane
B
Pentane
C
Butane
D
Methane
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the number of carbon atoms in the longest continuous chain of the compound. The given structure is CH\_3-CH\_2-CH\_2-CH\_3, which contains 4 carbon atoms in a row.
Recall the IUPAC nomenclature for alkanes, where the prefix indicates the number of carbon atoms: 1 carbon is methane, 2 is ethane, 3 is propane, 4 is butane, and 5 is pentane.
Since the compound has 4 carbon atoms and is a straight-chain alkane (only single bonds), the base name will be 'butane'.
Verify that there are no branches or functional groups that would modify the name; in this case, the molecule is a simple straight-chain alkane with no substituents.
Conclude that the correct IUPAC name for CH\_3-CH\_2-CH\_2-CH\_3 is 'butane'.