Write the formulas and IUPAC names for the following common alcohols (Hint: See Table 14.1).
a. Rubbing alcohol

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the common name 'rubbing alcohol' and recognize it as a common name for isopropyl alcohol.
2. Understand that isopropyl alcohol is a secondary alcohol, which means the hydroxyl group (-OH) is attached to a carbon atom that is connected to two other carbon atoms.
3. Write the molecular formula for isopropyl alcohol: C_3H_8O.
4. Determine the structural formula: CH_3CHOHCH_3, where the hydroxyl group is attached to the middle carbon of a three-carbon chain.
5. Provide the IUPAC name: Propan-2-ol, indicating the position of the hydroxyl group on the second carbon of the propane chain.

Key Concepts

Alcohols

Alcohols are organic compounds characterized by the presence of one or more hydroxyl (-OH) groups attached to a carbon atom. They are classified based on the number of hydroxyl groups and the carbon structure, with common types including primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols. Understanding the structure of alcohols is essential for writing their chemical formulas and IUPAC names.

IUPAC Nomenclature

The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) nomenclature is a systematic method for naming chemical compounds. For alcohols, the naming convention involves identifying the longest carbon chain, determining the position of the hydroxyl group, and using the suffix '-ol' to indicate the presence of the alcohol functional group. This standardized approach ensures clarity and consistency in chemical communication.

Common Alcohols

Common alcohols refer to widely used alcohols in everyday life, such as ethanol, isopropanol (rubbing alcohol), and methanol. Each of these alcohols has specific applications, with isopropanol commonly used as a disinfectant and solvent. Recognizing these common alcohols and their formulas is crucial for understanding their properties and uses in various contexts.