How would you name CH3CH(OH)CH(CH3)2?

My guess is 3-methylbutan-2-ol since the hydroxyl group has priority, but I don't understand why we write (CH3)2 and not CH(CH3)CH3, since the last CH3 is not a branch.

Reply 1

idkwhatXD_lol

2-methyl-2-butanol

Original post

by Hopefuluser

My guess is 3-methylbutan-2-ol since the hydroxyl group has priority, but I don't understand why we write (CH3)2 and not CH(CH3)CH3, since the last CH3 is not a branch.

(edited 1 year ago)

Reply 2

Hopefuluser

Original post

by idkwhatXD_lol

2-methyl-2-butanol

Except the methyl is on the 3rd carbon

Reply 3

TypicalNerd

Original post

by Hopefuluser

My guess is 3-methylbutan-2-ol since the hydroxyl group has priority, but I don't understand why we write (CH3)2 and not CH(CH3)CH3, since the last CH3 is not a branch.

I agree with your guess.

You can write it either way - both formats agree that there are two methyl groups on the same carbon, but your suggested format makes it easier to recognise the actual length of the parent chain and therefore making it easier to avoid making silly mistakes (e.g calling it 1,1-dimethylpropan-2-ol).