For the following terpenes, identify the isoprene units. In cross-linked or ring-containing terpenes, linkages can be formed between more than just C₁ and C₄ of isoprene. (b) farnesol

Video transcript

Hello everyone. Today we have a phone problem. Identify the isoprene units in the given turps. Note turbines with cross links or rings can form linkages between carbon atoms other than see carbon one and carbon four of the isoprene unit. So to identify isoprene units, we have to look for a chain of carbon atoms of five carbon atoms that contain a double bond and a double bond must be be between carbons two and three. So if we were to count from right to left, we have carbons 1234 and then we also have carbon five. Now note there can be a branching where carbon two lies. And so we can identify our first isoprene unit as such and we'll identify another one, 1234. And once again, we have that branch in carbon on carbon two for a total of two isoprene units. And with that, we have solved the problem overall, I hope this helped. And until next time.