Question

Identify 2-propoxybenzene from the following options:

• A.

  

• B.

  

• C.

  

• D.

  

Hint:

Always look closely at the branching number on the alkyl name! "1-propoxy" indicates a straight tail linkage ($\text{-O-CH}_2\text{-CH}_2\text{-CH}_3$), whereas "2-propoxy" means it links right at the middle vertex ($\text{-O-CH(CH}_3)_2$).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks us to identify the correct structural skeletal formula for the IUPAC name "2-propoxybenzene" (commonly known as a propoxy substituent attached to a benzene framework, specifically branched at the second position of the propyl chain).

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Let's unpack the structural components from the systematic IUPAC nomenclature:
The parent ring is "benzene".
The substituent group is a "propoxy" ether group ($-\text{O-C}_3\text{H}_7$).
The prefix "2-" indicates that the oxygen linker connects directly to the second carbon atom (C2) of the three-carbon propane chain, making it an isopropoxy group ($-\text{OCH(CH}_3)_2$).

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let's systematically analyze what each structure choice means:
An alkoxy group with a straight three-carbon chain attached to benzene is called 1-propoxybenzene (or $n$-propoxybenzene).
An alkoxy group where the benzene ring is attached via oxygen to the middle carbon of the three-carbon chain ($\text{-O-CH(CH}_3)_2$) represents 2-propoxybenzene (or isopropoxybenzene).
Evaluating option (B), the oxygen atom connects directly to a secondary carbon atom bonded to two terminal methyl groups. This represents the 2-propoxy linkage on a benzene base ring, aligning correctly with option (B).

Step 4: Final Answer:
The structure of 2-propoxybenzene is perfectly represented by option (B).