What does a chemical name describe?

A chemical name provides a detailed description of the chemical structure of a compound, which includes the arrangement of atoms and the types of bonds that exist between them. This name is derived following specific guidelines set by international conventions, such as the IUPAC nomenclature. It allows for clear communication among scientists and healthcare professionals about the substance’s identity and functionality based on its molecular configuration.

In contrast, the common use of a substance pertains to its practical applications rather than its chemical composition, while physical properties describe characteristics like color, melting point, and boiling point but do not provide insight into its molecular makeup. Pricing is irrelevant to the chemical name, as it focuses solely on the substance's identity from a scientific perspective.