What is the chemical structure of 2,2-dichloropropane?

The correct answer is 2,2-dichloropropane, which has the chemical structure CH₃-CCl₂-CH₃. This structure indicates that a propane backbone is present, where two chlorine atoms are substituted on the second carbon atom.

In this structure, the propane (C₃H₈) is modified such that one of the central carbons (the second carbon) has two chlorine atoms attached, while the other two carbons retain their hydrogen atoms. This results in a compound where the general formula adheres to the chemical naming rules, properly reflecting the substitution pattern of chlorine on the propane chain.

Understanding the naming conventions in organic chemistry is crucial. The prefix "dichloro-" indicates the presence of two chlorine substituents, and the number "2,2-" signifies that both of these substituents are on the second carbon of the propane chain.

The other choices either do not have the correct number of chlorine atoms or do not place them on the correct carbon in the propane structure. Therefore, the structure provided in the correct answer accurately satisfies the criteria established by its name, confirming its identity as 2,2-dichloropropane.