Chapter 7.5, Problem 14P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Stereochemistry of the double bond in the compound given, as E or Z, is to be assigned and its skeletal structure is also to be drawn.

Concept introduction:

The member that ranks higher can be determined by considering the atomic number of the first atom of the two substituents attached to the double bond separately. The atom with highest atomic number gets the higher rank. If a decision cannot be made by considering the atomic number of the first atom in each substituent then the second, third, fourth atoms away from double bond are considered until the first difference is found. Multiple bonded atoms are considered as equivalent to the same number of single bonded atoms. The isomer that has the higher ranked groups on each carbon are on the same side of the double bond is said to have Z configuration. If the higher ranked groups are on opposite sides, the alkene is said to have E configuration.

To assign:

The configuration for the compound given as E or Z.