What is the correct way to name alkanes with multiple branches?

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The discussion focuses on the correct naming of alkanes with multiple branches. The first problem is identified as 2,3-dimethylbutane, while the second is named 2-butyl-3-ethylbutane. The third problem involves an 8-carbon chain with branches at C3 and C4, leading to confusion about the correct nomenclature. The proposed name for the third problem is questioned, with a suggestion of 4-ethyl-4,3-dimethyloctane. The thread highlights the complexities of alkane naming conventions and the need for clarity in identifying branches.
Suzyscans
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1. This is my first posting, I am having trouble naming alkanes. I believe my first two problems are correct, but am unsure. The third problem I am having trouble with. I am just not sure what to name the branches coming off the carbon chain.
2.

1. (CH3)2CHCH(CH3)2 2. CH2Ch2CH2CH3
l
CH3CH2CH2CHCH2C--H
l l
CH3CH2 H3.
CH3 H
l l
CH3CH2CH2CH2--C--C--CH2CH3
l l
CH2 CH3
l
CH3

3. Problem 1 :4-carbon chain makes it butane. The branches at both C2 and C3 are methyl, so the name is 2,3-dimethylbutane.

Problem 2: 6-carbon chain makes it hexane. The branch at C2 is butyl. The branch at C3 is ethyl, so the name is 2-butyl-3-ethylbutane.

Problem 3:
8-carbon chain= octane
branch at C3 is methyl
branches at 4C are methyl and ethyl
That is where I get stuck on the name. Is it 4-ethyl-4,3-dimethyloctane??

Thanks very much for your input!
 
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I can't get the equations to display properly! I will edit as soon as I figure it out :)
 
You have 1) correct.
 

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