Chapter 4, Problem 13PP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The curve showing energy change from the rotation of $\text{C2-C3}$ bond of $2-\text{methylbutane}$ with all maxima and minima is to be sketched.

Concept introduction:

Newman projected two types of spatial arrangements of molecules which are staggered and eclipsed Newman projections.

Staggered conformation is the arrangement of atoms or groups of atoms in a molecule resulting in a ${60}^{\circ }$ dihedral angle. It is also called anti-coplanar transition or anti-conformation. It has low potential energy because of less torsional strain and hence, is more stable.

Eclipsed conformation is the arrangement of atoms or groups of atoms in a molecule resulting in a $0^{\circ }$ dihedral angle. It is also called syn-planar transition or gauche-conformation. It has high potential energy because of high torsional strain and hence, is less stable.