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Frequently Asked Question
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How to know if Newman projection should be staggered or eclipse?
Accepted Answer
The most stable conformation of a Newman projection is staggered, while the eclipsed conformation is less stable and higher in energy. Here's why:
Staggered: In a staggered conformation, the substituents on adjacent carbons are as far apart as possible, minimizing steric strain (the repulsion between electron clouds). This leads to a lower energy state.
Eclipsed: In an eclipsed conformation, the substituents on adjacent carbons are directly aligned, leading to maximum steric strain and a higher energy state.
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