cis-2-Butene vs trans-2-Butene - Isomer Relationship
What is the relationship between cis-2-Butene and trans-2-Butene?
Same connectivity but different spatial arrangement around the C=C double bond. The methyl groups are on the same side (cis) or opposite sides (trans).
| Molecule A | cis-2-Butene (C₄H₈) |
| Molecule B | trans-2-Butene (C₄H₈) |
| Relationship Type | cis-trans |
| Difficulty | beginner |
Introduction
Both molecules are 2-butene with the same connectivity. But the double bond prevents rotation — so how the groups are arranged matters.
Formula Comparison
Both have the formula C₄H₈ with the same atom connectivity: CH₃–CH=CH–CH₃.
Connectivity Analysis
The bonding sequence is identical in both molecules. Each has a C=C double bond between C2 and C3 with methyl groups on each end.
Spatial Relationship
In cis-2-butene, both CH₃ groups are on the same side of the double bond. In trans-2-butene, they are on opposite sides. The C=C double bond prevents rotation.
Chirality Check
Neither molecule has a tetrahedral chiral center. The restricted rotation around the double bond creates the isomerism.
Classification
These are cis-trans (geometric) isomers. Same connectivity, different spatial arrangement due to restricted rotation around the double bond.
Side-by-side 3D comparison with sync rotation, difference highlighting, and guided classification.
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