Question

The IUPAC name of $\beta$-ethoxy-$\alpha$-hydroxypropanic acid is

• A. 1-Carboxy-2-hydroxyethanol
• B. 1-Carboxy-2-ethoxy propane
• C. 3-Ethoxy-2-hydroxypropanoic acid
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is C

3-Ethoxy-2-hydroxypropanoic acid

Firstly lets try to make the structure of the compound .

What is $\alpha$ and $\beta$?

$\alpha$ - carbon $\to$ The first carbon which is attached to the functional group.

$\beta$ - carbon $\to$ The second carbon which is attached to the functional group.

Therefore, because it is propanoic acid $\to$ -COOH group.

Ethoxy $\to -O-C_2{H}_5$

Hydroxy $\to$ OH

$\Rightarrow$

Now, parent chain and numbering

[Because COOH is higher in preference]

word root = prop

COOH group $\Rightarrow$ suffix $\to$ oic acid

$\Rightarrow$ propanoic acid

Now, substituents are -OH at $C_2$ and $-C{H}_2-O-C_2{H}_{5}at{C}_3$

Therefore, 3-Ethoxy -2-hydroxypropanoic acid