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4. Alkanes and Cycloalkanes - Part 3 of 4
4. Alkanes and Cycloalkanes / Newman Projections / Problem 1

Draw a potential energy diagram for the conformational analysis of n-butane as it rotates around the single bond between C2 and C3.

Hint: One C—H bond eclipsed with another C—H bond contributes to 4.2 KJ/mol, one C—H bond eclipsed with a C—CH3 bond contributes 5.4 KJ/mol while One C—CH3 bond eclipsed with a C—CH3 bond contributes 13 KJ/mol to torsional energy. Similarly, Gauche (60° methyl group) will add 3.8 KJ/mol energy.

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