The longest continuous carbon chain of a branched-chain hydrocarbon is called a(n)
a. isomer
c. principle alkane
b. substituted alkane
d. parent alkane

In naming a branched hydrocarbon, always identify the longest continuous carbon chain. This longest continuous carbon chain of a branched-chain hydrocarbon is called the parent alkane. This will determine the supposed to be number of carbon chain present in your hydrocarbon. And it is placed as a family name for your hydrocarbon. For example, we have CH3ClCH2CH2ClCH3. The branched groups are the Cl-atoms. The parent alkane is butane. Therefore, the name of this hydrocarbon is 1,4-dichloro butane. Isomer, principal alkane and substituted alkane does not detect the longest carbon chain. Only the parent alkane.

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