Question

Given the condensed formula for an alkane, classify the underlined carbon atom as zero, methyl, primary, tertiary, secondary, or quaternary.

Example Condensed Formula: CH₃-CH(CH₃)-CH₂-CH₃

(a) Zero
(b) Methyl
(c) Primary
(d) Tertiary
(e) Secondary
(f) Quaternary

Answer 1

(e) Secondary In the condensed formula CH3-CH(CH3)-CH2-CH3, the underlined carbon is attached to two other carbon atoms, making it a secondary carbon.

Step-by-step explanation:

To classify the underlined carbon atom in the given condensed formula CH3-CH(CH3)-CH2-CH3, we need to look at the number of carbons attached to it. The underlined carbon is the one in the middle of the compound, CH(CH3).

The classifications are based on the number of carbon atoms attached to the carbon in question:

• Methyl: A carbon atom attached to one other carbon.
• Primary (1o): A carbon attached to only one other carbon atom.
• Secondary (2o): A carbon attached to two other carbon atoms.
• Tertiary (3o): A carbon attached to three other carbon atoms.
• Quaternary (4o): A carbon attached to four other carbon atoms.

In the example, the underlined carbon is attached to two other carbon atoms (a methyl group and a methine group), making it a secondary carbon.