What is the systematic name of a four-carbon chain with a trifluoromethyl group on the second carbon?

The systematic name of a compound provides a clear and unambiguous way to depict its structure using the rules of organic chemistry nomenclature. In this case, we have a four-carbon chain, which indicates that we are dealing with a butane skeleton. The prefix "but-" signifies the presence of four carbon atoms.

Since there is a trifluoromethyl group (-CF₃) on the second carbon of the butane chain, this introduces a substituent that must be appropriately indicated in the name. To communicate the location and nature of this substituent, the naming convention requires specifying the carbon on which it is located. By denoting the position of the trifluoromethyl group as "2-" before the main chain name "butane," the systematic name reflects both the presence of the substituent and its correct location.

Thus, the full name "2-Trifluoromethylbutane" accurately describes the compound, ensuring that chemists can easily understand its structure from the name alone. The "2-" prefix indicates the position of the trifluoromethyl substituent on the second carbon of the butane framework, which is central to indicating its correct structure.