Conclusion – Axial vs Equatorial Position
The orientation, stability, size, shape, and interactions with neighboring groups of a molecule differ in axial and equatorial locations. Axial positions are perpendicular to the molecule’s plane, and equatorial locations are in the plane. Equatorial locations are often more stable and bigger than axial positions, which might have unfavorable interactions due to steric hindrance.
Also read, Hybridization
Difference Between Axial and Equatorial Position
Difference between Axial and Equatorial Position: Six carbon atoms are grouped in a ring in a cyclohexane molecule. Each carbon atom is connected to two other carbon atoms as well as two hydrogen atoms. When one or more substituents are introduced into the ring, they might take an axial or equatorial position. In the axial position, the substituent is perpendicular to the plane of the ring, pointing up or down. The substituent is projecting outward from the plane of the ring in the equatorial position. The difference in axial and equatorial orientations might alter the molecule’s stability and reactivity.
Axial substituents, for example, might encounter steric hindrance from adjacent groups, making them less stable. Equitorial substituents, on the other hand, experience less steric hindrance and are often more stable. The terms axial and equatorial are crucial for illustrating the precise 3D location of the chemical bonds in a cyclohexane molecule with a chair conformation. A molecule can assume a conformation as a result of the rotation of one or more of its bonds. To reduce angle strain, the bonds are placed in axial and equatorial orientations.
In this article, you will learn in detail about what is axial position and equatorial position along with the difference between Axial and Equatorial Position.
Table of Content
- What is Axial Position?
- What is Equatorial Position?
- Difference between Axial and Equatorial Position