IUPAC NUMECLATURE OF ORGANIC COMPOUNDS

IUPAC Nomenclature of Organic Compounds

The IUPAC system (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) is the standard method used for naming organic compounds systematically. The purpose is to give each compound a unique and universally accepted name.

Steps to Name Organic Compounds

1. Identify the longest carbon chain: This forms the parent name of the compound.
2. Number the chain: Number from the end nearest a substituent group to give substituents the lowest possible numbers.
3. Name the substituents: Identify all groups attached to the main chain.
4. Combine names: Write the substituents in alphabetical order, followed by the parent chain name and functional group suffix.

Common Suffixes

• -ane: Single bonds (Alkanes)
• -ene: Double bonds (Alkenes)
• -yne: Triple bonds (Alkynes)
• -ol: Alcohols
• -al: Aldehydes
• -one: Ketones

Examples

Example 1: CH3-CH2-CH3

Longest chain: 3 carbons → Parent: Propane

Name: Propane

Example 2: CH3-CH(OH)-CH3

Longest chain: 3 carbons → Parent: Propane

Substituent: -OH at carbon 2

Name: 2-Propanol

Example 3: CH2=CH-CH3

Longest chain: 3 carbons with double bond → Propene

Number double bond from nearest end: starts at carbon 1

Name: Prop-1-ene

✅ Practice regularly to master naming of complex organic compounds using IUPAC rules.

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IUPAC Nomenclature CBT Quiz

Test your understanding of IUPAC Nomenclature. Select the correct answer for each question and click "Check Answer".

1. What is the IUPAC name of CH3-CH2-CH3?

Propane
Propene
Propyne

2. What is the parent chain in CH3-CH(OH)-CH3?

Methane
Propane
Ethane

3. What is the correct name for CH2=CH-CH3?

Prop-1-ene
Propane
Prop-2-ene

4. Which suffix is used for alcohols?

-ol
-al
-one

5. How do you number the chain?

From the end nearest a substituent
From the longest chain end
From any end randomly