Exciting Cycloalkane Naming Quiz!

Name the following cycloalkane:

CH3

CH2CH3

A. 2-ethyl-1-methylcyclopentane

B. 1-methyl-2-ethylcyclopentane

C. 1-ethyl-2-methylcyclopentane

Answer:

The correct name of the given cycloalkane is 1-ethyl-2-methylcyclopentane.

Do you want to learn more about how to name cycloalkanes according to IUPAC nomenclature? Let's dive into the explanation!

When naming a cycloalkane, it's important to identify the alkyl groups attached to the ring and determine the numbering system of the cycloalkane so that the substituted carbons have the lowest possible numbers.

In this case, the base ring is cyclopentane with 5 carbons, and we have an ethyl group (CH2CH3) and a methyl group (CH3) attached to the ring.

According to IUPAC rules, the substituent that comes first in the alphabet is given the lower number. In this case, ethyl (CH2CH3) is larger than methyl (CH3), so the ethyl group is assigned the smaller number.

Therefore, the correct name of the cycloalkane is 1-ethyl-2-methylcyclopentane, where the ethyl group starts from carbon 1 and the methyl group from carbon 2.

Remember, correct naming of cycloalkanes is crucial in organic chemistry to ensure clarity and consistency in communication. Keep practicing and you'll become a pro at naming cycloalkanes in no time!