neo vs tert

[Jasmine Alcantara 3G]

Are the prefixes neo and test interchangeable?

[Chem_Mod]

Are the prefixes neo and test interchangeable?

They are not.

[Matt_Coopersmith_4H]

The prefix "neo" is used when all but two carbons form a continuous chain, whereas the prefix "tert" is used when the functional group is bonded to a tertiary carbon. In other words, “neo” is used during any part of the hydrocarbon chain whereas "tert" is used only for a functional group that is bonded to a tertiary carbon, or a carbon that is bonded to 4 other carbons.

[Alyssa Ishimoto 1A]

A neo group has three methyl groups at the end and must have at least 5 carbons total. Usually there is a secondary carbon that connects the neo group to the main chain. A tert butyl group is a branching chains that also has three methyl groups but the tertiary carbon connects the three methyl groups to the main chain. The test-butyl group is a subdivision of the neo group.