IUPAC Naming Steps: A Comprehensive Guide to Organic Molecule Nomenclature

Step 1

Find the longest chain of C and number it

Step 2

Identify base name of molecule

ex: dec-, meth-, etc.

Step 3

Number the longest chain making sure that the mist substituents are on a low number

Step 4

Identify substituents

ex: methyl, ethyl, propyl

Step 5

Order substituents alphabetically

ex: ethyl, trimethyl, propyl

Step 6

Add substituents location number on chain

ex: 3-ethyl-2,2,3-trimethyl-5-propyl

Step 7

Put all together

ex: 3-ethyl-2,2,3-trimethyl-5-propyl decane

Primary (P)

1 thing attached to C

Secondary (s)

2 things attached to C

Tertiary (t)

3 things attached to C

Quaternary (q)

4 things things on C

Cyclo-

ring

Cis-Trans-

If present goes in front of name

cis-___________________