0
$\begingroup$

What is the name of this $\ce{C13H28}$ isomer:

$\hspace{5.5cm}$molecule

I think it must be "4-ethyl-6,7-methylnonane," but I saw somewhere that its name is "6-ethyl-3,4-methylnonane". Why? The ethyl number must be smaller, isn't it? (because E is before M). Am I wrong?

|improve this question
$\endgroup$
3
$\begingroup$

Alphabetic order dictates which order the substituents are written in, but not the numbering of their positions. Numbering is determined by what minimizes the numbers. E.g. 3-ethyl-2-methylhexane is correct, but 4-ethyl-5-methylhexane is not.

|improve this answer
$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.