Q41P - Organic Chemistry (Mcmurry)

Question

Carvacrol is a naturally occurring substance isolated from oregano,

thyme, and marjoram. What is its IUPAC name?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The IUPAC name of carvacrol is 5-isopropyl-2-methylphenol.

Step 1: Derivatives of phenol

The derivatives of phenol are named hydroxyl benzene if the ring comprises another substituent also, the ring is numbered from the carbon comprising the  

-OH  in a way that the lowest number is provided to the carbon with the substituent.

Step 2: IUPAC name of carvacrol

The given compound is a derivative of phenol. Numbering the carbon from the hydroxyl group, there is a methyl group on the second position and an isopropyl group on the fifth position. Hence, the IUPAC name of the compound is 5-isopropyl-2-methylphenol.