The twisted boat conformation of cyclohexane is actually a slightly lower energy conformation than the boat conformation. Which of the following accurately describes one factor involved in this structural behavior?
A) lower angle strain in the boat
B) higher torsional strain in the twisted boat
C) fewer unfavorable steric factors in the twisted boat
D) increased rotational freedom in the boat
E) lower bond strain in the boat

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The twisted boat conformation of cyclohexane has fewer unfavorable steric interactions than the boat conformation. The axial and equatorial groups in the boat conformation are in close proximity, leading to steric strain. The twisted boat conformation resolves this issue by reducing these close interactions. Additionally, the twisted boat conformation also has lower angle strain than the boat conformation. This reduces the overall energy of the molecule, making it a more stable conformation.

The Twisted Boat Conformation of Cyclohexane Is Actually a Slightly