Naming Alkanes

To name an alkane, first find the longest continuous carbon chain. This gives the stem, for example butane for four carbons. The longest chain may bend on the page.Next, identify the alkyl side chains, such as methyl or ethyl, and number the main chain from the end that gives the side chains the lowest numbers.Write the number of the carbon each side chain is on, followed by a dash and the side chain name. For example, CH₃CH(CH₃)CH₂CH₃ is 2-methylbutane.If there are two or more of the same side chain, use di-, tri- or tetra- and give every number, separated by commas. For example, C(CH₃)₄ is 2,2-dimethylpropane.Different side chains are listed in alphabetical order, ignoring di- and tri-, for example 3-ethyl-2-methylpentane.