Why is ethanol considered the parent chain in naming this benzene derivative?

In summary, benzene derivatives are compounds derived from benzene and are commonly used in various industries. They are named using the IUPAC system and can contain functional groups such as methyl, ethyl, hydroxyl, amino, and carboxyl. The positions of these functional groups are identified by numbering the carbon atoms in the ring. When naming substituted benzene derivatives, multiple substituents are listed alphabetically and prefixes are used to indicate the number of identical substituents.
  • #1
jolly_math
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5
Homework Statement
Name the following molecule (below)
Relevant Equations
naming
1670911286423.png

The name of this molecule is 1‐(3‐nitrophenyl)ethanol. I'm confused why ethanol is treated as the parent chain in this case, not the phenyl group. If the ring is composed of more atoms, should it be the parent chain?
Thank you.
 
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  • #2
Because ethanol is the highest priority group.
 
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Likes jolly_math and DrClaude
  • #3
To help make it clear, it's the oxygen on the ethyl group that gives it the priority. Replace the OH with H and it becomes 3 ethyl nitromethane. On the other hand, lose a carbon at the ethyl and it becomes 3 nitrotoluene, so hopefully that clears everything up!
 

1. What is a benzene derivative?

A benzene derivative is a molecule that contains a benzene ring as part of its structure. It is formed when one or more hydrogen atoms in the benzene ring are replaced with other atoms or functional groups.

2. How are benzene derivatives named?

Benzene derivatives are named using a system called IUPAC nomenclature. This involves identifying the substituents attached to the benzene ring and arranging them in alphabetical order, followed by the word "benzene". The position of the substituents is indicated by a number before the substituent name.

3. What is the purpose of naming benzene derivatives?

Naming benzene derivatives allows scientists to accurately and consistently communicate the structure of a molecule. This is important for understanding its properties, reactions, and potential uses in various industries.

4. How do you determine the priority of substituents in benzene derivatives?

The priority of substituents in benzene derivatives is determined by the atomic number of the atoms attached to the benzene ring. The higher the atomic number, the higher the priority. If two substituents have the same atomic number, the one with the higher atomic mass has priority.

5. Are there any exceptions to the naming rules for benzene derivatives?

Yes, there are some exceptions to the naming rules for benzene derivatives. For example, common names may be used for some compounds, such as toluene and aniline. Additionally, some compounds may have multiple substituents with the same name, in which case the prefix "di-", "tri-", etc. is used to indicate the number of substituents.

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