12
QuizMultiple Choice

Properties and Uses of Saturated Hydrocarbons

Question 12 • Foothill-B Period-Chemistry-26/27B

When is di- used in the name of a hydrocarbon?

Answer
A
when the main chain contains two carbon atoms
B
when there are two different substituents
C
when there are two main chains of equal length
D
when there are two identical substituents

Explanation

The prefix di- means “two” and is used when a molecule has two identical substituents attached to its main carbon chain. For example, two methyl groups are named dimethyl. It does not describe the number of carbons in the main chain or two different substituents.

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