Question

The dihedral angle in the staggered conformation of \(\text{CH}_{3}\text{CH}_{3}\) is

• A. \(120^{\circ }\)
• B. \(60^{\circ }\)
• C. \(0^{\circ }\)
• D. \(90^{\circ }\)

Hint:

In the staggered form, each front C-H bond lies midway between two rear C-H bonds.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
In a Newman projection of ethane, the three C-H bonds on each carbon are \(120^{\circ}\) apart.

Step 2: Staggered form
Each front C-H bond lies midway between two rear C-H bonds, so the angle between nearest bonds is \(60^{\circ}\).

Step 3: Conclusion
The eclipsed form has a dihedral angle of \(0^{\circ}\), so staggered has \(60^{\circ}\).

Final Answer:
The dihedral angle in staggered ethane is \(60^{\circ}\). \[ \boxed{\text{(B) }60^{\circ}} \]