Both s-cis and s-trans conformers of 1,3-butadiene have a continuous conjugated $\pi$ system. Which of the following statements is true about the s-cis conformer?
A) The s-cis conformer is lower in energy than the s-trans conformer
B) The s-cis conformer is higher in energy than the s-trans conformer
C) The s-cis conformer has equal energy as the s-trans conformer
D) none of these

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the s-cis conformer, the two double bonds are in close proximity and experience steric repulsion, which makes it higher in energy than the s-trans conformer, where the double bonds are oriented in a more staggered configuration. This results in the s-trans conformer being more stable and lower in energy.

Both S-Cis and S-Trans Conformers of 1,3-Butadiene Have a Continuous π\piπ

Both S-Cis and S-Trans Conformers of 1,3-Butadiene Have a Continuous $\pi$