Can someone tell me what these parenthesis mean?

  • Thread starter flyingpig
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In summary, parentheses are used to set apart non-essential information in a sentence. They should be used sparingly and only when necessary, and can be used in any type of sentence. They serve a specific purpose and cannot be replaced by other punctuation marks. The information enclosed in parentheses should not disrupt the grammatical structure of the main sentence.
  • #1
flyingpig
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Homework Statement



Draw this organic molecule (CH₃)₃CCH₂CH(CH₃)CH₂CH₂CH₃




The Attempt at a Solution



My smart friend tells me it is 2,2,4-trimethylheptane.

But I counted and I got octane, what does the parenthesis mean??
 
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  • #2
(CH₃)₃CCH₂CH(CH₃)CH₂CH₂CH₃

The first paranthesis means the group in parenthesis is repeated the number of times in the subscript, the second set mean that the group is separate and attached to the atom next to it.
 

1. What is the purpose of using parentheses in a sentence?

Parentheses are used to set apart additional information or clarifications that are not essential to the main sentence. They can also be used to enclose numbers, symbols, or abbreviations.

2. How do I know when to use parentheses in my writing?

Parentheses should be used sparingly and only when necessary. They should be used when the information enclosed is not essential to the meaning of the sentence, but can provide additional context or explanation.

3. Can parentheses be used in any type of sentence?

Yes, parentheses can be used in any type of sentence, including declarative, interrogative, imperative, and exclamatory sentences. However, they should be used appropriately and not excessively.

4. Are parentheses interchangeable with other punctuation marks?

No, parentheses serve a specific purpose in separating additional information from the main sentence. They cannot be replaced with other punctuation marks such as commas, periods, or dashes.

5. Do parentheses affect the grammatical structure of a sentence?

Yes, parentheses can affect the grammatical structure of a sentence. The information enclosed in parentheses is considered an independent element and should not disrupt the main sentence's grammatical structure. It should be able to be removed without changing the sentence's meaning or structure.

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