Naming organic compounds
3 marks · NormalA hydrocarbon has the following displayed formula:
Apply IUPAC rules to determine the correct name of this compound.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
butane
Also accept: Butane
Common mistakes: propane; methane; pentane
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · Identifies the number of carbon atoms in the longest continuous chain (4 carbons).
M2 · 1 mark · Recognises no branches or substituents (straight chain) and identifies compound as an alkane (all single bonds).
A1 · 1 mark · Writes correct IUPAC name: butane.
Worked solution
Step 1: Count the number of carbon atoms in the continuous chain. There are 4 carbon atoms.
Step 2: All bonds between carbons are single bonds, so it is an alkane.
Step 3: The prefix for 4 carbon atoms is 'but-' and the suffix for an alkane is '-ane'.
Final answer: butane