In the most stable conformation of neomenthol, stereochemical orientat...
Explanation:
Neomenthol is an isomer of menthol with the molecular formula C10H20O. It has a cyclohexane ring with three substituents - hydroxyl (-OH), isopropyl (-iPr) and methyl (-Me) groups. The most stable conformation of neomenthol is the one in which the three substituents are oriented to minimize steric hindrance and maximize stability.
Stereochemistry of neomenthol:
The orientation of the three substituents on the cyclohexane ring can be described using the following terms:
- Axial: When a substituent is oriented perpendicular to the plane of the ring, pointing up or down.
- Equatorial: When a substituent is oriented parallel to the plane of the ring, pointing outward.
In neomenthol, the most stable conformation is the one in which the bulky isopropyl group is in the equatorial position to minimize steric hindrance. The orientation of the other two substituents depends on the orientation of the isopropyl group.
- OH: Since the isopropyl group is equatorial, the hydroxyl group must be axial to avoid steric hindrance with the isopropyl group.
- i-Pr: The isopropyl group is already in the equatorial position as mentioned earlier.
- Me: Since the isopropyl group is equatorial, the methyl group must be axial to avoid steric hindrance with the isopropyl group.
Therefore, the stereochemical orientation of the three substituents on the cyclohexane ring in the most stable conformation of neomenthol is:
- OH: axial
- i-Pr: equatorial
- Me: axial
Hence, option B is the correct answer.
In the most stable conformation of neomenthol, stereochemical orientat...
Percentage of equatorial conformer increase the stability of molecule i,e.. There is no 1,3- diaxial interactions and bulky i-pr group &Me groups occupied equatorial positions