The incorrect statement regarding conformations of ethane is :
- The dihedral angle in staggered conformation is 60 .
- Ethane has infinite number of conformations.
- Eclipsed conformation is the most stable conformation.
- The conformations of ethane are inter-convertible to one-another.
Answer
(3) Eclipsed conformation is the most stable conformation.
Solution
[figure]
∵ Rotation about the C–C σ bond is almost free (barrier ≈ 12.5 kJ mol-1).
(A): in the staggered form the front and rear C–H bonds are 60 apart ⇒ (A) is correct
(B): rotation can stop at any angle ⇒ infinite conformations ⇒ (B) is correct
(C): eclipsed form has maximum torsional strain ⇒ least stable ⇒ (C) is incorrect
(D): low rotation barrier ⇒ conformations interconvert ⇒ (D) is correct
Answer: (3)