Chair conformation

Definition

The chair conformation is a three-dimensional shape that cyclohexane (a six-carbon ring) can adopt, characterized by its stability due to minimized steric hindrance and torsional strain. It resembles a chair, with alternating carbon atoms serving as the "seat" and "legs" or "backrest" of the chair.

Related terms

Steric hindrance: This is the resistance that molecules feel when their atoms are brought too close together, causing repulsions due to overlapping electron clouds.

Torsional strain: Torsional strain occurs when molecules experience resistance to twisting about a bond because of the repulsion between electrons in bonds that are eclipsed or partially eclipsed.

Boat conformation: The boat conformation is another shape that cyclohexane can adopt, characterized by higher energy levels than the chair form due to increased steric hindrance and torsional strain