Which of the following statements about butane's conformation is false?
A) Butane can exist in an infinite number of possible conformations.
B) At any given time, most butane molecules exist in the most crowded conformation.
C) Butane can change from one conformation to another by the rotation of its C-C single bonds.
D) All of these statements are false.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

At any given time, most butane molecules exist in the lowest energy (most stable) conformation, which is staggered. This conformation minimizes steric hindrance between the methyl groups. The eclipsed conformation, where the methyl groups are directly aligned, is the highest energy (least stable) conformation and is rarely observed. While there are technically an infinite number of possible conformations for butane, not all are accessible due to energy barriers. Butane can change conformations by rotation around its C-C single bonds, and this ability to rotate is what gives it its flexibility.

Which of the Following Statements About Butane's Conformation Is False