Coding for branched chains

1 mark · Normal

Which of the following is the correct IUPAC name for the molecule with this structural formula?

Skeletal formula: four carbon atoms in a row, with a methyl group attached to the second carbon.

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Correct option: 2-methylbutane

Common mistakes: wrongly numbering chain; using non-systematic name

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Marking points

A1 · 1 mark · Correctly selects '2-methylbutane'.

Worked solution

Number the main chain of 4 carbons as butane. The methyl group is attached to position 2. The IUPAC name is 2-methylbutane.