Question

What is the IUPAC name of the compound ${\mathrm{CH}}_3-\mathrm{CH}\left(\mathrm{OH}\right)-\mathrm{COOH}$?

Answer 1

IUPAC Nomenclature

• "In order to clearly identify the compound, a systematic method of naming has been developed and is known as the IUPAC (Internation Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) system of nomenclature."

Rules of IUPAC nomenclature

Determination of Root Word

Select the continuous chain with the maximum number of carbon atoms

Here the chain is having 3 carbon atoms, hence root word will be “Prop”

Determination of names and positions of Locants

There is a substituent present in carbon 2 in the given compound, for the $-\mathrm{OH}$, -hydroxy is used.

Determination of Suffix

There are carboxylic functional groups, the suffix will be “oic” acid is used.

• The structure is as follows,
• 
• Hence, the IUPAC name of ${\mathrm{CH}}_3-\mathrm{CH}\left(\mathrm{OH}\right)-\mathrm{COOH}$ is 2-hydroxy propanoic acid.