Question

What are the names of the given molecules? `a.`

And `b.`

Answer 1

`(a)` is a hexane derivative. `(b)` is a nonane derivative

Explanation:

In all of these problems, you are required to find the longest hydrocarbyl chain. For reasons of clarity when we write out the formula we try to assume the maximum symmetry possible.

The longest chain in `(a)` is six carbons long, i.e. a `"dimethylhexane"`. I leave you to find it, and I leave you to name it. The longest chain in `(b)` is 9 carbons long, a substituted `"nonane"`, with ethyl and methyl substituents along the chain.