Question

Consider the four representations of 2,3-dichlorobutane. Which of the following is correct?

1) CH₃CHClCH₂CH₃
2) CH₃CH₂CHClCH₃
3) CH₃CHClCHClCH₃
4) CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₂Cl

Answer 1

The correct structural representation of 2,3-dichlorobutane is CH3CHClCHClCH3, where the chlorine atoms are attached to the second and third carbons of a four-carbon chain.

Step-by-step explanation:

When determining the correct structural representation of 2,3-dichlorobutane, you need to look for a structure where there are two chlorine (Cl) atoms attached to a four-carbon chain, specifically on the second and third carbons of the chain. The correct structural formula should therefore have the chlorine atoms and carbon atoms connected in the following manner: a CH3- group (methyl) at one end, followed by a carbon with a chlorine attached (CHCl-), then another carbon with a chlorine attached (CHCl-), and finally a second CH3 group at the other end (CH3).

The correct answer from the options given is therefore Option 3: CH3CHClCHClCH3, as it is the only one that correctly shows the chlorine atoms on the second and third carbons of a butane chain.