Question

What is the name of the shown compound?

(a) Ethane-1,2-dione

(b) Butane-1,2-dione

(c) Butanone

(d) Butane-2,3-dione

I have been asked this question in a national level competition.

The doubt is from Nomenclature and Structure of Carbonyl Groups topic in section Aldehydes, Ketones and Carboxylic Acids of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

Right choice is (d) Butane-2,3-dione

For explanation I would say: This is a symmetrical dimethyl diketone. There are four carbons in the parent chain, including the two carbons of ketonic group and numbering can start from either end of the chain.