Transcript text: H H H H
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H — C — C — C — C — H
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H H H H
Solution
Solution Steps
Step 1: Identify the Structure
The given structure is a linear chain of carbon atoms with hydrogen atoms attached. This is a representation of a hydrocarbon molecule.
Step 2: Count the Carbon Atoms
Count the number of carbon atoms in the chain. There are four carbon atoms in the structure.
Step 3: Count the Hydrogen Atoms
Count the number of hydrogen atoms attached to the carbon chain. Each carbon atom is bonded to two hydrogen atoms, except for the terminal carbon atoms, which are bonded to three hydrogen atoms each. This gives a total of 10 hydrogen atoms.
Step 4: Determine the Molecular Formula
Based on the count of carbon and hydrogen atoms, the molecular formula of the compound is determined. With 4 carbon atoms and 10 hydrogen atoms, the molecular formula is \( \text{C}_4\text{H}_{10} \).
Step 5: Identify the Compound
The molecular formula \( \text{C}_4\text{H}_{10} \) corresponds to butane, a simple alkane.