Chemical Forums
Chemistry Forums for Students => High School Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: KurzickMushroom on September 11, 2009, 07:29:49 PM
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CH3 C(CH3)(C2H5) CH(C2H5)(CH2)3 CH3
The (CH2)3 near the right hand side is what confuses me. From what I know, each carbon in this structure may only have 4 bonds connected to it. I don't understand how those 3 methanes are just there.
Thanks in advance.
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(CH2)n is a shortcut for a string of methylene groups - that is, a chain of carbon atoms with two hydrogen atoms attached. It's just a generic carbon chain with no substituents. I've redrawn what I think is your molecule. Did I redraw it correctly? Can you name it now that it's redrawn? What is your guess so far?
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In condensed form , the formula of organic compounds are written in this way ([n][/sub]CH).It makes the formula shorter.
For example- C5H10 (n-pentane) can be written as CH3 (CH2)3 CH3.
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CH3 C(CH3)(C2H5) CH(C2H5)(CH2)3 CH3
The (CH2)3 near the right hand side is what confuses me. From what I know, each carbon in this structure may only have 4 bonds connected to it. I don't understand how those 3 methanes are just there.
Thanks in advance.
When I have to name such a thing I can never work from the condensed form - the version you have been given
I have to draw the structure of the compound. Then I check that all the carbons have 4 bonds (as you wrote). Then I work out the longest carbon chain - that is the backbone - and start naming from there by adding all the side groups.
Clive
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Thanks all I think I got it now.