Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Chemistry => Topic started by: The Scientist on 03/07/2010 11:47:51

Title: Why are "common" terms for chemicals often used instead of the chemical name?
Post by: The Scientist on 03/07/2010 11:47:51

Why are common names often used for chemical compounds instead of systematic names? Please provide explanation. Thanks!

Title: Re: Why are "common" terms for chemicals often used instead of the chemical name?
Post by: ebichu63 on 03/07/2010 20:56:00

Because the common names of compunds were already in use before their chemical formulae were determined.

Also, "caffeine" is easier to remember than "1,3,7-trimethyl- 1H-purine- 2,6(3H,7H)-dione".