Conformations of Ethane and Butane

Conformational Isomerism is a form of stereoisomerism where interconversions of isomers are possible by rotations referring to single bonds. These isomers are termed as Conformational isomers. Rotational Energy acts as a barrier in case of single bond rotation. It has to be overcome to interconvert one conformer to another. The energy barrier must be small for Conformational Isomerism to occur. There are several types of conformational isomers. For example Ethane and Butane.

Conformations of Ethane

Ethane is an organic Chemical Compound. It is a colorless and odor gas at a standard temperature. Ethane molecule consists of seven sigma bonds. There will be a change in the shape of the molecule when there is a rotation of about six carbon-hydrogen bonds. But many possible differences occur when there is a rotation about the carbon-carbon bond.

Now suppose we rotate CH_{3}CH3​ group clockwise at an angle of 60 degrees, there would be a possible that hydrogen present at the front carbon is close to the hydrogen present at the back carbon. That is Eclipsed Conformation.

Eclipse Conformation is one of the highest Conformation. Another clockwise rotation at an angle of 60 degrees would lead to second eclipsed conformation. The solid line in the above figure represents the 6 carbon-hydrogen bond that is extended at an angle of 120 degrees from 2 carbons.

Uses Of Ethane: it is widely used in the production of Ethane. It is mainly done through steam cracking. It acts as a ripening agent for food. It is a primary ingredient in mustard gas.

Conformations of Butane

Butane is an organic compound which consists of an alkane with 4 carbon atoms. It may refer to a mixture of 3 isomers. At atmospheric pressure, Butane is a gas. They are liquefied gas that is highly flammable.

Compared to ethane, hydrogen butane is consists of the complex set of conformations that is related to the constitution. The below figure represents the 4 conformations of butane.

The above diagram explains the rotation about C2-C3 bond due to the change in potential energy.

Uses of Butane: Pure of butane can be used as a refrigerant. It is used in Butane Torch. It is widely used in gasoline blending. Butane Cartridges are used to powered cordless hair irons.