Axial position (cyclohexane)

Definition

In cyclohexane, an axial position refers to the orientation of substituents parallel to the axis of the ring, projecting outward from or inward towards the center of the molecule. These positions alternate up and down around the ring in a chair conformation.

Related terms

Equatorial Position (Cyclohexane): Substituents located around the perimeter of the cyclohexane ring, sticking out sideways rather than aligning with its vertical axis.

Chair Conformation:

A three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in cyclohexane that minimizes steric strain by allowing for staggered positioning of hydrogen atoms.

Steric Strain:

The repulsion between atoms within a molecule that results from their occupying positions too close to each other, often affecting the molecule's stability and reactivity