Convert the structure below to a skeletal drawing

Convert the structure below to a skeletal drawing. H H C-H H-C-C=C-C H H

The Correct Answer and Explanation is:

Skeletal Drawing:

Here is the skeletal structure of the molecule:

markdownCopyEdit     CH3   CH3
      |     |
H3C – CH2 – CH = CH – CH3

Or in skeletal form (without explicitly showing hydrogens and carbon labels):

markdownCopyEdit       |
CH3 – CH2 – CH = CH – CH3

In true skeletal line structure:

markdownCopyEdit       /\
CH3–CH2–CH=CH–CH3

Explanation

The structure provided in linear form:

H H C–H H–C–C=C–C H H

can be interpreted by identifying the bonding pattern among atoms. Let’s break this down:

1. The molecule contains a five-carbon chain.
2. A double bond exists between the third and fourth carbon atoms, indicating an alkene.
3. Hydrogen atoms are attached to complete the valence of each carbon.

The full condensed structure can be represented as:

CH3–CH2–CH=CH–CH3

This molecule is called pent-2-ene, indicating a five-carbon chain (pentane) with a double bond between the second and third carbon atoms (starting from either end due to symmetry).

Converting to a skeletal structure:

A skeletal structure simplifies the organic molecule by representing carbon atoms as the ends and junctions of lines. Hydrogens attached to carbon are not shown unless they are part of a functional group or are necessary for clarity. Carbon atoms are implied at each vertex and line end.

1. Each straight line between points represents a bond between carbon atoms.
2. The double bond is shown by two parallel lines between the two carbon atoms where it occurs.
3. Methyl groups at each end are indicated by line ends (each representing a –CH3).

The skeletal structure for pent-2-ene would show a zigzag pattern with a double bond in the middle. Hydrogens and carbon labels are omitted as per convention, making it faster to interpret and draw. This structure is standard in organic chemistry due to its efficiency and clarity.