Conformational Analysis

Reading & References

• Alkane Properties - Conformational Analysis and Newman Projections
• Conformations of Cyclic Alkanes - Chair Structures

Learning Goals

• Acyclic Systems
• Newman Projections for any two carbon atoms in an alkane
• Identify Gauche and Eclipsing interactions in a Newman Projection
• Determine the lowest energy conformation by analyzing sequential rotations of a hydrocarbon using Newman Projections
• Cyclic Systems
• Relate relative ring strain (not exact kcal/mol values) for cyclopropane, cyclobutene, cyclopentane, and cyclohexane
• Represent six membered ring systems using chair conformations
• Draw chair-chair interconversions (ring flip)
• Given a substituted cyclohexane, identify both chair conformations and determine the lowest energy conformation

Practice Problems

• Workbook
• Newman Projection - Page 17
• Chair Conformations and Ring Flips - Page 18