Can someone tell me what these parenthesis mean?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the interpretation of the molecular structure (CH₃)₃CCH₂CH(CH₃)CH₂CH₂CH₃, which is identified as 2,2,4-trimethylheptane. The parentheses indicate that the methyl group (CH₃) is repeated three times, attached to the carbon atom (C) next to it. This notation clarifies the branching structure of the molecule, distinguishing it from octane, which lacks such branching. Understanding this notation is crucial for accurately naming organic compounds.

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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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(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.
 

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