Organic compound nomenclature is comfortable for me, in the regards that each functional group has a particular ‘rule’ to follow with the subsequent name. The trouble I am having is more focused on the finer details of the naming process – in particular at which carbon the actual naming process begins. Take, for example, a chain of five hydrocarbons with an OH bonded to the second-to-last carbon. The location of the aldehyde can either land on the 2nd carbon or on the 4th carbon, depending on the side that is deemed ‘the first carbon.’ Or, consider the case of a carbon ring: the first carbon could be any one of the carbons contained in the ring.
I am sure that there is a rule for these cases that has alluded me as of yet, and perhaps I should do some more research to find exactly what this rule is. My biggest question is how chemists decided on this nomenclature scheme – not only how, but why they agree on the location of the first carbon in any general organic molecule.
I plan to take Exam 1 on Tuesday and as of right now, I feel relatively comfortable with the material. I understand the review material and can mostly work my way through the equations with a little dimensional analysis. Again, my biggest struggle at this point is the organic compound nomenclature. To help, I have a side of the note card that we are allowed to take in dedicated to the functional groups, carbon chain nomenclature, and special cases (like trans- vs cis- structures). As far as the practice exam is concerned, it appears to be very much organic compound naming, which worries me a ton because that is not my strong suit. Even with my note card, I am not at the point now that I can go into the exam and feel confident about naming these things.
Luckily, I have a few days to prepare and hopefully answer all of my questions. Anyways, thanks for reading, and wish me luck!
CHEM1810 Journal 