Which of the following is the correct IUPAC name of the compound ${\mathrm{C}}_4{\mathrm{H}}_{10}$ having the structure $\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{H}}_3-\mathrm{CH}(\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{H}}_3)-\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{H}}_3$?

Step-by-step solution

1. Identify the longest continuous carbon chain: it contains 4 carbon atoms, so the parent hydrocarbon is a butane.
2. Count the substituents attached to the main chain: there is one methyl group attached to the second carbon.
3. Number the carbon chain so that the substituent gets the lowest possible locant; numbering from the left gives the methyl group at carbon 2.
4. Combine the locant, substituent name and parent name: 2‑methylbutane.
5. The common name for 2‑methylbutane is Isobutane, which matches one of the options.

Concept tested: Naming of alkanes (IUPAC nomenclature) and recognizing branched isomers.

Published 20 August 2026 · How this solution was prepared and checked

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