Coding for branched chains

3 marks · Easy

Below is the skeletal formula for a hydrocarbon.

(a)

Skeletal formula: main chain of four carbons, with methyl groups at carbons 2 and 3.

State the length of the longest carbon chain.

[1 mark]

(b)

Name the type of side chains present.

[1 mark]

(c)

Give the IUPAC name for the compound.

[1 mark]

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

(a) 4

(b) methyl

Show mark scheme and worked solution

Marking points

B1 (a) · 1 mark · States longest carbon chain is 4.

B2 (b) · 1 mark · Names side chain as methyl.

B3 (c) · 1 mark · Gives full IUPAC name: 2,3-dimethylbutane. (follow-through)

Worked solution

a) The longest chain contains 4 carbons. b) Both side chains are methyl groups. c) The compound is 2,3-dimethylbutane.