Chapter 6: Conformations

Two essential tools for visualizing these 3D arrangements are introduced: Newman projections and chair conformations. Newman projections are used to evaluate the spatial relationship and energy of different dihedral angles, highlighting staggered (low-energy) vs. eclipsed (high-energy) states, with special focus on anti and gauche interactions. Chair conformations, specific to cyclohexane and six-membered rings, help visualize axial and equatorial positioning, ring flips, and the stability of substituents based on steric hindrance. The chapter teaches how to properly draw chairs, place groups correctly using wedge/dash interpretations, and determine which chair is more stable—especially when bulky groups like tert-butyl are present. By mastering these techniques, students can predict which conformations facilitate or inhibit chemical reactions.