What is the hydrogen deficiency index for a compound with a molecular formula of C₁₂H₁₆O? A) 2 B) 4 C) 5 D) 6

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The hydrogen deficiency index (HDI) or degree of unsaturation is a count of how many molecules of H2 need to be added to a structure to convert it into a saturated, acyclic species. The formula for calculating HDI is: HDI = 1 + 0.5 * (2C + 2 + N - H - X), where C is the number of carbons, N is the number of nitrogens, H is the number of hydrogens, and X is the number of halogens. For the given molecular formula, which simplifies to C116H116O, the calculation is: HDI = 1 + 0.5 * (2*116 + 2 - 116) = 1 + 0.5 * (232 + 2 - 116) = 1 + 0.5 * 118 = 1 + 59 = 60. However, the options provided do not match this calculation, suggesting a misunderstanding in the interpretation of the formula or a typographical error in the question or options. Given the options, none directly correspond to the correct calculation based on the standard formula for HDI.

What Is the Hydrogen Deficiency Index for a Compound with a Molecular