Chapter 6, Problem 6.37AP

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation:

The chiral conformations of $\text{2-methylbutane}$ are to be identified in the staggered conformations which are resulted from rotation about the $\text{C2}-\text{C3}$ bond.

Concept introduction:

Newman projections are drawn to visualize the different conformations of a compound around $\text{C}-\text{C}$ bond. In Newman projection, the circle represents the back carbon and the dot represents the front carbon. The potential energy of the eclipsed form is higher than that of staggered form. The sawhorse representation is used to show the above carbon atom on right side in a molecule.

Interpretation Introduction

(b)

Interpretation:

The reason for the fact that $\text{2-methylbutane}$ has chiral conformations but still it is not a chiral compound is to be stated.

Concept introduction:

A carbon atom that has four nonequivalent atoms or groups attached to it is known as the chiral carbon atom. Chiral carbon centers are also called asymmetric or stereogenic centers. A carbon atom that does not have four nonequivalent atoms or groups attached to it is known as an achiral carbon atom.

Interpretation Introduction

(c)

Interpretation:

The staggered conformations of $\text{2-methylbutane}$ is to be arranged in increasing order of heat formation. The explanation for the corresponding answer is to be stated. The values heat formation for any of the isomers of $\text{2-methylbutane}$ is equal or not is to be stated. The reason for the corresponding answer is to be stated.

Concept introduction:

The sawhorse representation is used to show the above carbon atom on right side in a molecule. The staggered from forms when all-atom is away from each other. The eclipsed form forms when all two atoms come in front of each other. The potential energy of the eclipsed form is higher than that of staggered form.