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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct IUPAC name for the compound with the structure ?
A
Pentane
B
Propane
C
Butane
D
Hexane
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the structure given: it is a straight chain of carbon atoms connected by single bonds, represented as \(\mathrm{CH_3 - CH_2 - CH_2 - CH_2 - CH_3}\).
Count the number of carbon atoms in the longest continuous chain. Here, there are 5 carbon atoms connected in a row.
Recall the IUPAC nomenclature for alkanes, where the prefix indicates the number of carbons: 1 carbon = methane, 2 = ethane, 3 = propane, 4 = butane, 5 = pentane, 6 = hexane, and so on.
Since the chain has 5 carbons and only single bonds, the correct base name is 'pentane'.
Verify that there are no branches or functional groups that would modify the name; since none are present, the correct IUPAC name for the compound is 'pentane'.