I’m taking organic chemistry and I am having a hard time picturing 3D ball and stick models. I understand newman projection models but when examining these models I just can’t see their relationship.

The specific problem I am trying to do now is with 5 conformations of Butane. The goal is to figure out decreasing orders of steric energy.
I understand the concept on the order I just can not translate it into ordering the ball and stick models. Any ideas or help would be greatly appreciated

One Response to “How do you determine what conformation a ball and stick model is in for organic chemistry?”

1. loveleigh on October 17th, 2008 6:49 pm

   First, do you actually own a model kit? If you do, and this is your first semester of o=chem, you have to put in the time messing around with it. If you understand newman projection then you can use the models. They are exactly the same, you just may not see it yet. I used to put one different color ball to keep myself oriented (either a H or a C). I would follow the odd color with every projection. I strongly suggest getting to know the model set because it doesn’t get any easier. Wait until you learn chair conformations. I cant even tell you how many hours I spent fooling around with those things, but now after completing org chem 1 and 2 I can honestly say I know my stuff. Right now your only working with an alkane, but do not freight, if you keep at it, you will see it. Check out the website i posted below. I hope this was helpful.

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