Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Chair Conformation of Cyclohexane
Cyclohexane can adopt a chair conformation, which is the most stable due to minimized torsional strain. In this conformation, carbon atoms alternate between axial and equatorial positions. Axial positions are perpendicular to the ring plane, while equatorial positions are parallel, affecting steric interactions and stability.
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Gauche Interaction
Gauche interactions occur when two substituents on adjacent carbons are 60 degrees apart, leading to torsional strain. In cyclohexane derivatives, these interactions contribute to the overall energy of the molecule, as they are less favorable than anti conformations where substituents are 180 degrees apart.
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1,3-Diaxial Interaction
1,3-Diaxial interactions are steric strains that occur when axial substituents on cyclohexane are in close proximity, leading to increased energy due to repulsion. These interactions are significant in determining the stability of different conformations, with equatorial positions generally preferred to minimize steric hindrance.
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