Jul 25, 2026 • 1 min read
The Ultimate Guide to Organic Chemistry Nomenclature
IUPAC naming doesn't have to be confusing. Learn the systematic approach to naming any organic compound.
Organic chemistry nomenclature follows a logical system established by IUPAC. Master this system and you can name any molecule.
The Parent Chain
Find the longest continuous carbon chain. This determines the root name (meth-, eth-, prop-, etc.).
Functional Groups
Identify the highest priority functional group. This determines the suffix (-ol, -al, -oic acid, etc.).
Numbering
Number the chain to give the lowest possible numbers to the functional groups and substituents.
Putting It Together
Combine prefixes, root, and suffix in the correct order. Use commas between numbers, hyphens between numbers and words.