What does the n, iso, sec and tert mean in naming organic compounds?
Answer: This method is used to name branched hydrocarbon substituents (not a main chains). If the substituent is a "normal" straight chain it is n eg. n-butyl. However drop the n and name as a butyl group. If the substituent branches into TWO METHYL groups AT THE END of it, then it is an iso eg. isobutyl. It is sec if the carbon connected to the parent is connected to two carbons (but does not form two methyl groups). Tert is if connected to three. Sometimes tert is abbreviated to t. For example
5 t-butyl