Question

Write the structural formulas for each of the following alkanes:
(a) `n`-Butane
(b) Isobutane
(c ) Neopentane
Strategy: The prefix `n` is used for any alkane (no matter how large) in which `C` atoms form a continuos chain with no branching. In an isoalkane of six carbons of fewer, all carbons except one form a continous chain and that one `C` atom is attached to the next-to-end carbon. Neoalkane is characterized by the presence of a quaternary `C` atom.

Answer 1

`underset(n-"Butane")(CH_(3)CH_(2)CH_(2)CH_(3)), underset("Isobutane")underset(CH_(3))underset(|)(CH_(3)CHCH_(3)), underset("Neopentane")underset(CH_(3))underset(|)overset(CH_(3))overset(|)(CH_(3)C CH_(3))`
An alkyl group is the structure remaining after one `H` is removed from an alkane.This group which constantly appears as the structural unit of alkanes is named simply by dropping-ane from the name of the corresponding alkane and replacing it by `-yl`. The general formula for an alkyl group is `C_(n)H_(2n+1)` Since it contains one less `H` atom than the parent alkane `C_(n)H_(2n+2)`