The general formula of `C_(n)H_(2n-2)O_(2)` could be for open chain

Options

A. Diols
B. Carboxylic acids
C. Diketones
D. None of these

Answer

To determine the open chain compound that corresponds to the general formula \( C_nH_{2n-2}O_2 \), we can analyze the structure and characteristics of different organic compounds.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the General Formula**:
The formula \( C_nH_{2n-2}O_2 \) indicates that for every 'n' carbon atoms, there are \( 2n-2 \) hydrogen atoms and 2 oxygen atoms. This suggests that the compound is unsaturated, as the number of hydrogen atoms is less than that of saturated hydrocarbons (which follow the formula \( C_nH_{2n+2} \)).

**Hint**: Remember that the presence of fewer hydrogen atoms compared to saturated hydrocarbons indicates unsaturation.

2. **Identifying Possible Functional Groups**:
The presence of two oxygen atoms suggests that the compound could be a type of alcohol, carboxylic acid, or a carbonyl compound (like a ketone or aldehyde).

**Hint**: Consider the functional groups that can accommodate two oxygen atoms, such as alcohols (diols), carboxylic acids, or ketones.

3. **Exploring Diols**:
Diols (compounds with two hydroxyl groups) typically have the formula \( C_nH_{2n+2}O_2 \). For example, ethylene glycol (C2H6O2) fits this formula. Since our given formula has fewer hydrogen atoms, it cannot be a diol.

**Hint**: Recall that diols have an additional hydrogen compared to the given formula.

4. **Examining Carboxylic Acids**:
Carboxylic acids have the general formula \( C_nH_{2n+1}COOH \) or \( C_nH_{2n+2}O_2 \). Again, the formula \( C_nH_{2n-2}O_2 \) does not match this category.

**Hint**: Check the hydrogen count in carboxylic acids and see if it aligns with the formula.

5. **Analyzing Diketones**:
Diketones, which contain two carbonyl groups, can fit the formula \( C_nH_{2n-2}O_2 \). For example, 2,3-butanedione has the structure \( CH3C(=O)C(=O)CH3 \) and corresponds to the formula \( C4H6O2 \) when \( n=4 \).

**Hint**: Look for compounds with multiple carbonyl groups that can fit the hydrogen and oxygen count.

6. **Conclusion**:
Based on the analysis, the general formula \( C_nH_{2n-2}O_2 \) corresponds to diketones.

**Final Answer**: The general formula \( C_nH_{2n-2}O_2 \) could be for diketones.