Final 2015 - 9B

[Alexis Elliott 1J]

For the problem with the cycloheptane, why is the propane the base molecule? The heptane has a longer carbon chain so I don't quite understand why it is named that way.

[Kayla_Black_2B]

Could you be referring to part A of problem 9? If so, I believe this is because as a functional group alcohol has first priority over substituents and cycloalkanes. Thus, in order to start numbering at the functional group, cycloheptane must be treated as a substituent to the 3rd carbon in the chain alcohol is a part of. Hope this makes sense!

[Chris_Rudewicz_3H]

The alcohol at the end of the propane is what is important here. So you will name it at the end.