How Do You Name Bicyclic Compounds Using IUPAC Nomenclature?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the naming of bicyclic compounds using the IUPAC nomenclature system, specifically focusing on a homework problem involving a particular bicyclic alkane structure. Participants are examining the correct identification of atoms, bridgeheads, and the proper naming conventions for the compound in question.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant outlines a three-step process for naming bicyclic alkanes, including counting carbons and identifying bridgeheads.
  • Another participant challenges the initial numbering of the structure, stating that there is no carbon 6 and that the drawing may lead to confusion due to line crossings.
  • Several participants express confusion regarding the identification of bridgeheads and the correct interpretation of the molecular structure.
  • One participant suggests visualizing the structure as two cyclohexane molecules connected, which may clarify the confusion regarding the numbering.
  • There are repeated inquiries about the location of bridgeheads, indicating uncertainty in their identification.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct naming of the bicyclic compound. There are multiple competing views regarding the structure and the identification of bridgeheads, leading to ongoing confusion and debate.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in the provided molecular drawing, including potential misinterpretations due to the 2D representation of a 3D structure. There are unresolved questions about the correct numbering and identification of atoms within the bicyclic compound.

Who May Find This Useful

Students studying organic chemistry, particularly those focusing on IUPAC nomenclature and bicyclic compounds, may find this discussion relevant.

gracy
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Homework Statement


Name the following molecule by the IUPAC system of nomenclature.
bicyclico.gif

Homework Equations


There are some rules.

To name bicyclic alkanes, you follow these three steps:

1- Count the total number of carbons in the entire molecule. This is the parent name (eg. ten carbons in the system would be decane)

2-Count the number of carbons between the bridgeheads, then place in brackets in descending order. (eg. [2,2,1])

3-Place the word bicyclo at the beginning of the name.

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
I numbered the given structure as follows
numbered.png


And I considered the red line to be bridge
redline.png



redliness.png

And I named it as Bicyclo [5,3]Decane
But it is wrong . Answer is Bicyclo[3,3,1]nonane
 
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There is no carbon 6. To draw this molecules to scale you can't avoid an accidental crossing of the lines on the picture. Bonds go like 2-9 and 5-7 using your numbering scheme.
 
You counted the atoms incorrectly. There is no atom where you wrote the number 6. The figure is not well drawn, so I can understand the confusion, but look at it as two cyclohexane molecules stuck together.
 
Borek said:
To draw this molecules to scale you can't avoid an accidental crossing of the lines on the picture. Bonds go like 2-9 and 5-7 using your numbering scheme.
I did not understand.
 
There is no atom 6, there are no bonds 6-9, 6-7, 6-2 and 6-5. When you have something that is 3d, and you try to draw it on a flat surface of paper (which is always kind of projection), sometimes lines have to cross - but it doesn't mean they touch in the real molecule.
 
Where are bridgeheads in this case?
 
gracy said:
Where are bridgeheads in this case?
2 and 7.
 
I am confused. How to identify bridge heads?
 
gracy said:
I am confused. How to identify bridge heads?
They are the atoms that are part of the two rings.
 

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