In the lowest energy conformation of the compound below, how many alkyl substituents are equatorial?
A) 0
B) 1
C) 2
D) 3
E) 6

Question

In the lowest energy conformation of the compound below, how many alkyl substituents are equatorial? 
A) 0 
B) 1 
C) 2 
D) 3 
E) 6

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the lowest energy conformation, the bulky tert-butyl group will likely be equatorial to minimize steric interactions. Additionally, one of the methyl groups on the cyclohexane ring must also be equatorial to alleviate steric strain. Therefore, there are two equatorial alkyl substituents (the tert-butyl group and one methyl group) in the lowest energy conformation.

In the Lowest Energy Conformation of the Compound Below, How