Name the following alkanes using the IUPAC system of nomenclature. [Each molecule exemplifies one of the nomenclature rules in Tables 3.7 and 3.8.]
(j) rule 5

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the longest continuous carbon chain in the molecule. This will serve as the parent chain. Count the number of carbons in this chain to determine the base name of the alkane.
2. Step 2: Number the carbons in the parent chain starting from the end closest to the first substituent group. This ensures the substituents receive the lowest possible numbers.
3. Step 3: Identify and name all substituent groups attached to the parent chain. Use prefixes such as methyl, ethyl, etc., based on the number of carbons in each substituent.
4. Step 4: Assign a number to each substituent based on its position on the parent chain. If there are multiple substituents of the same type, use prefixes like di-, tri-, etc., to indicate their quantity.
5. Step 5: Combine the names of the substituents with the parent chain name, arranging substituents alphabetically and separating numbers from names with hyphens. Ensure the name follows IUPAC rules for nomenclature.

Key Concepts

IUPAC Nomenclature

The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) nomenclature provides a systematic method for naming organic compounds. It involves identifying the longest carbon chain, determining the functional groups, and applying specific rules to assign a unique name that reflects the structure of the molecule. Understanding these rules is essential for accurately naming alkanes and other organic compounds.

Longest Carbon Chain

In organic chemistry, the longest carbon chain is the continuous chain of carbon atoms that forms the backbone of the molecule. When naming alkanes, identifying this chain is crucial as it determines the base name of the compound. The longest chain should include the maximum number of carbon atoms, and branches or substituents are named based on their position relative to this chain.

Substituents and Their Position

Substituents are groups of atoms that replace hydrogen atoms in the alkane structure. When naming a compound, it is important to identify these substituents and their positions on the longest carbon chain. The position is indicated by numbering the carbon atoms in the chain, ensuring that the substituents receive the lowest possible numbers, which is a key rule in IUPAC nomenclature.