What is a major reason for the complexity in identifying chemical names?

The complexity in identifying chemical names primarily arises from the chemical and molecular structure of the compounds. Each chemical can have a systematic name that is derived from its structure, which includes details about the arrangement of atoms, types of bonds, and functional groups present in the molecule. This systematic naming process is governed by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), which provides standard rules for naming based on structural composition. As a result, a single chemical might have multiple names depending on its structure, leading to confusion and complexity in identification.

In contrast, common usage can lead to colloquial names that do not reflect the chemical structure. Popularity in trade might affect how a chemical is branded or marketed but does not necessarily aid in clear identification based on structure. Regulatory approval processes focus on safety and compliance, which are important but do not directly influence the complexity of naming based on chemical composition.