The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) names for organic compounds all follow the same set of rules and can have up to four parts. Recognizing the overall pattern can simplify the learning process.
The rotational limits of cycloalkanes introduce stereochemistry to some compounds. Some disubstituted cycloalkanes can exist as geometric isomers (cis/trans).
Alcohols are organic compounds with hydroxyl groups as a unique structural feature. Alcohol classification will be useful as we learn patterns of chemical reactivity. The terms "vicinal" and "germinal" are also explained.
Ethers, epoxides, and sulfides all have the heteroatom disrupting the continuous carbon chain. There is no IUPAC suffix for ethers. The alkoxy group is always a substituent.
This section focuses on naming benzene derivatives and the important distinction between a phenyl group and a benzyl group. Phenol nomenclature and with other important benzene derivatives are discussed.
While there are many functional groups that include the carbonyl structural feature, aldehydes and ketones are collectively referred to as "the carbonyls." With their highly similar chemical reactivity, their nomenclature is taught together.
Amines are important weak bases, organic reactants. and biologically active compounds, such as alkaloids. Amine classification is helpful in recognizing patterns of chemical reactivity.
Carboxylic acids are important natural products and synthetic precursors. The common names are provided for carboxylic acids (1 to 10 carbons) and selected dicarboxylic acids.