2methylnonane

2-Methylnonane is a branched-chain alkane with the chemical formula C10H22. It is one of the 75 structural isomers of decane. As a saturated hydrocarbon, it consists solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms linked by single bonds. Its structure features a nine-carbon chain (nonane) with a methyl group (CH3) attached to the second carbon atom. This molecular arrangement gives it distinct physical and chemical properties compared to its straight-chain isomer, n-decane.

2-Methylnonane is a colorless liquid at room temperature and pressure. Like other alkanes, it is nonpolar and therefore insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ether and benzene. It is flammable and burns in the presence of oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water. Its boiling point is lower than that of n-decane due to the branched structure, which results in weaker van der Waals forces between molecules. Its density is also lower than that of water.

This compound finds application as a component in fuels and as a solvent in various chemical processes. It is also used as a standard in gas chromatography and as a reference compound in analytical chemistry. Its presence in crude oil and refined petroleum products contributes to the complex mixture that constitutes gasoline and other fuels.