Newman Projections: Build
Common Questions
What is a Newman projection?
A Newman projection shows the conformation of a molecule by looking straight down the axis of a carbon-carbon bond. The front carbon is a dot, the back carbon is a circle, and each carbon's three substituents radiate outward at 120-degree angles.
How do you build a Newman projection from a wedge-dash structure?
Identify the bond you are sighting along. Groups on wedge bonds go on the front carbon (dot). Groups on dash bonds go on the back carbon (circle). Groups in the plane go to the sides, respecting the dihedral angle.
What is the difference between eclipsed and staggered conformations?
In a staggered conformation, substituents on the front and back carbons are 60 degrees apart. In an eclipsed conformation, they line up directly behind each other (0-degree dihedral). Staggered is lower energy.
What is the difference between anti and gauche conformations?
Both are staggered. Anti has the two largest substituents 180 degrees apart (lowest energy). Gauche has them 60 degrees apart (slightly higher energy due to steric strain).