Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
The chair conformation of cyclohexane is more stable than the boat conformation.
B
Cyclopentane adopts a planar conformation to minimize angle strain.
C
The boat conformation of cyclohexane experiences torsional strain due to eclipsed hydrogens.
D
Puckering in cycloalkanes helps to reduce steric strain.
E
All cycloalkanes have the same level of stability regardless of their conformation.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
Cyclohexane’s lowest‑energy form is the chair, which eliminates all eclipsing interactions and places all C–H bonds in staggered positions. The boat form is higher in energy because it contains eclipsing interactions and steric crowding at the “flagpole” hydrogens. A twist‑boat intermediate has less strain than the boat but more than the chair, showing that ring size and torsional strain determine stability. Thus, any statement that identifies the chair as the most stable conformation, notes the boat’s higher energy, or recognizes the twist‑boat as intermediate is correct.
Detailed Explanation
The chair form has no eclipsed bonds, so it has lower torsional strain. Other options are incorrect because Cyclopentane is not flat; a planar ring would force atoms close together and cause angle strain; Not all cycloalkanes are equally stable; the chair is more stable than the boat.
Key Concepts
Cycloalkane Conformations
Stability and Strain in Molecules
Conformational Analysis
Topic
Cycloalkane Conformations
Difficulty
medium level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
Ready to Master More Topics?
Join thousands of students using Seekh's interactive learning platform to excel in their studies with personalized practice and detailed explanations.