Write the IUPAC name for the compound below. Be sure to use correct punctuation. Keep the information page open for guidance and for use with feedback. Accepted names for branched alkyl groups are isopropyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl, and tert-butyl. Do not use italics.
CH2CH2CH3 (CH3),CCH2CHCH2CH3
The IUPAC name is 3-neopentylhexane
An error has been detected in your answer. Check for typos, miscalculations etc. before submitting your answer.
Submit Answer
Retry
Entire Group
2 more group attempts remaining
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct IUPAC name for the compound shown in the image is:
4-(1,1-dimethylethyl)heptane
Explanation
The structure provided in the image needs to be analyzed for its longest continuous carbon chain and the substituents attached to it to determine the correct IUPAC name.
Step 1: Identify the Longest Chain
Start by identifying the longest continuous chain of carbon atoms. In this case, the longest chain has 7 carbon atoms, so the parent name is heptane.
Step 2: Identify and Name Substituents
Next, identify the group attached to the main chain. There is a branched alkyl group on the fourth carbon of the heptane chain.
The substituent is a neopentyl group, which consists of a -CH₂- attached to a central carbon bonded to three methyl groups (–CH₂C(CH₃)₃). However, “neopentyl” is not an accepted name in IUPAC nomenclature.
Instead, we must use the accepted IUPAC name for this group: 1,1-dimethylethyl. This accurately describes a central carbon (C) bonded to two methyl groups (–CH₃) and an ethyl group (–CH₂–).
Step 3: Number the Chain
Number the carbon chain from the end nearest to the substituent to give the substituent the lowest possible number. Here, the 1,1-dimethylethyl group is attached to the 4th carbon of the heptane chain.
Step 4: Combine and Finalize the Name
Now combine the substituent and the parent name, ensuring correct punctuation and format.
The correct name is:
4-(1,1-dimethylethyl)heptane
This name reflects:
- A seven-carbon main chain (heptane),
- A substituent on carbon 4,
- That substituent being a 1,1-dimethylethyl group.
Important Note:
“Neopentyl” is a common name and not accepted in systematic IUPAC nomenclature, which is why the originally suggested name 3-neopentylhexane was marked incorrect. Always use the preferred IUPAC names for substituents when required.
