Question

part 2 of 2
what is the molecular formula for 2,6,10 - trimethyltridecane?

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze parent - chain

Tridecane has 13 carbon atoms. The general formula for alkanes is $C_nH_{2n + 2}$. For $n = 13$, the parent - chain has the formula $C_{13}H_{28}$.

Step2: Consider methyl groups

There are 3 methyl ($-CH_3$) groups as substituents. Each methyl group adds 1 carbon and 3 hydrogens. So, in total, 3 carbons and 9 hydrogens are added.

Step3: Calculate total atoms

The total number of carbon atoms is $13+3=16$, and the total number of hydrogen atoms is $28 + 9=38$.

Answer:

$C_{16}H_{38}$