91Ó°ÊÓ

A systematic way of naming organic compounds based on their chemical composition and structure is given by IUPAC nomenclature.

Alkanes are hydrocarbon containing only single bonds. The general formula for an alkane is ${\text{C}}_{\text{n}}{\text{H}}_{\text{2n+2}}$, where $n=$number of carbon atoms.

In order for an alkane to be named, following rules must be followed.

(a) The longest continuous chain of carbon atoms is identified, which gives the base name.

(b) Starting with the end nearest a branch, the longest carbon chain is numbered.

(c) Substituents present on the longest chain, such as alkyl groups, are named, and each substituent is located by the number of the main chain carbon atom to which it is attached.

(d) Listing is done in alphabetical order if two or more substituents are present. Prefixes like di-, tri-, tetra-, etc., are used if there are two or more of the same alkyl substituents.

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

(e)

(f)

(g)

(h)