How do you draw Newman projections?

1 Answer
Mar 24, 2017

Well, I have said this before, but use a model..........

Explanation:

You have to transfer the 3D geometry of a molecule onto the 2D page. Most of us would find this reasonably difficult. It is all too easy to make a mistake or ignore some interaction, and it is hard to convey meaningful geometry.

On the other hand, if you make a three-dimensional model, you have something tangible to inform your representation. You can vizualize the possible conformers simply by rotating about the one #C-C# bond, and get a good idea of the conformational profile.

Models are ALWAYS allowed in organic chemistry examinations. They must be. And you will always find models on the desks of distinguished professors of organic chemistry. They are not wholly stupid, and they learnt the rule early to use three-dimensional representations to inform their reasoning and conjecture.