For the compound CH 3 -CH 2 -CHO, what is its correct IUPAC name?

Question

Examoogle · Accepted Answer

The correct answer is Option A: Propanal. The compound $CH_3-CH_2-CHO$ contains three carbon atoms and an aldehyde functional group ($-CHO$). In IUPAC nomenclature, a three-carbon alkane chain is called 'propane', and the aldehyde suffix '-al' is added to signify the functional group, resulting in 'propanal'.

Step-by-Step Solution & Concepts:
The compound $CH_3-CH_2-CHO$ contains three carbon atoms and an aldehyde functional group ($-CHO$). In IUPAC nomenclature, a three-carbon alkane chain is called 'propane', and the aldehyde suffix '-al' is added to signify the functional group, resulting in 'propanal'.

Working Principle: IUPAC naming rules follow the hierarchy of functional groups. The aldehyde group carbon is always assigned position 1 in the principal carbon chain. Since there are three carbons total ($C_1$ in $CHO$, $C_2$ in $CH_2$, and $C_3$ in $CH_3$), the parent alkane is propane, which becomes propanal when the $-CHO$ group is present.

Key Formulas: $R-CHO$ — General formula for an aldehyde where $R$ is an alkyl group; $C_nH_{2n}O$ — General molecular formula for saturated aldehydes

Key Points: Aldehydes always have the functional group carbon at the end of the chain, so position numbering usually starts from the carbonyl carbon.; The suffix for aldehydes is '-al'.; Carbon count for $CH_3-CH_2-CHO$ is $1+1+1 = 3$, corresponding to the 'prop-' prefix.

Advantages: IUPAC nomenclature provides a systematic way to identify organic molecules globally.

Applications: Propanal is used as an intermediate in the production of plastics and rubber chemicals.; Aldehydes are fundamental building blocks in organic synthesis for medicines and fragrances.

Additional Info: Propanone ($CH_3-CO-CH_3$) is a ketone with three carbons.. Propanoic acid ($CH_3-CH_2-COOH$) is a carboxylic acid with three carbons.. Propanol ($CH_3-CH_2-CH_2OH$) is an alcohol with three carbons.

Answer: A is correct — The compound $CH_3-CH_2-CHO$ is an aldehyde with three carbon atoms, which follows the IUPAC naming convention for propanal.

Exam Tip: Always identify the principal functional group first in organic chemistry, as it determines the suffix of the IUPAC name, regardless of the chain length.

Examoogle · Answer

Option B: Propanone

Examoogle · Answer

Option C: Propanoic acid

Examoogle · Answer

Option D: Propanol Question ID : 4410091565468 Option 1 ID : 4410096183364 Option 2 ID : 4410096183366 Option 3 ID : 4410096183365 Option 4 ID : 4410096183363 Status : Answered Chosen Option : A

Correct Answer

Solve 10,000+ More Questions with AI Tutor

Discussion (0)

Correct Answer

Solve 10,000+ More Questions with AI Tutor

Related Questions

Discussion (0)