Question

What is the structure of `"hexane"`? How is this structure reflected in its `""^1H` `"NMR spectrum"`?

Answer 1

Well, the molecule is linear to a first approx.....

Explanation:

But in isotropic solution, the molecule is conceived to tumble about. Spectroscopic techniques suggest that can interrogate the molecular symmetry, i.e. `""^1"H"`, and `""^13"C{"""^1"H}"` `"NMR spectroscopies"` reveal that there are three carbon, and three hydrogen environments, with the appropriate `6:4:4` integral ratio, i.e. `H_3C`, and `2xxCH_2`, revealed by integration of the `""^1"H"` `"NMR spectrum"` (and I wish the spectrum were appropriately integrated).

........and the `""^13C{""^1H}` `"NMR spectrum"` gives.....

Both spectra give the required three signals for the `"H"_3"CCH"_2"CH"_2"CH"_2"CH"_2"CH"_3` molecule...As written, and as observed in the spectra, the methyl groups are equivalent, as are the two sets of methylene groups.

And as a general rule, when given an organic molecule to consider, it is usually a good idea to represent it on paper as symmetrically as possible. If something is funny with its preferred conformation, you will soon find out.