Question

Write the IUPAC names of the following structural formula.

CH₃ – CH₂ – COOH

Answer 1

The number of carbon atoms in the longest chain: 3 

Parent alkane: Propane 

Functional group: -COOH (-oic acid) 

If the carbon chain of the compound contains a -COOH group then change the ending of the parent name, i.e., ‘e’ of propane is replaced by ‘oic acid’. 

Parent suffix: Propanoic acid 

IUPAC name: Propanoic acid