Question:

What is the IUPAC name for Acetone?

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Ketones are named by replacing the suffix -ane with -one. The number indicates the position of the carbonyl group in the carbon chain.
Updated On: Apr 23, 2026
  • Propanal
  • Propan-1-one
  • Propan-2-one
  • Butan-2-one
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Acetone is the simplest and most common member of the ketone family of organic compounds. Ketones are characterized by the presence of a carbonyl group \((C=O)\) bonded to two carbon atoms. The molecular formula of acetone is: \[ C_3H_6O \] Its structural formula is: \[ CH_3 - CO - CH_3 \] In the IUPAC system of nomenclature, naming is based on the longest carbon chain containing the functional group and the position of that group. Key steps in naming ketones:
• Identify the longest carbon chain.
• Number the chain so that the carbonyl carbon gets the lowest possible number.
• Replace the suffix -ane with -one.

Step 1:
Identify the carbon chain.
Acetone contains three carbon atoms, so the parent hydrocarbon is propane.

Step 2:
Locate the functional group.
The carbonyl group \((C=O)\) is attached to the second carbon atom.

Step 3:
Apply the ketone suffix.
Replacing -ane with -one gives the name: \[ \text{Propan-2-one} \] Thus, the IUPAC name of acetone is Propan-2-one.
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