Chapter 12, Problem 12A.1E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The ratio of the two conformations of polyethylene molecules at the given temperature of ${\text{20}}^{\text{o}}\text{C}$ has to be found.

Concept Introduction:

Conformations of polyethylene:

There are two different conformations for polyethylene molecules which are a radial coil form and a stretched out form. Let the radial coil stretched out forms can be abbreviated as $r.c$ and $s.o$ respectively for the easier understanding in calculating the ratio of these two conformations of polyethylene. The radical coil is the lower energy conformation. Hence, can it be achieved in many different ways whereas the stretched out conformation is the higher energy conformation. Therefore, the radical coil conformation is the most stable conformation of polyethylene whereas the stretched out conformation is the less stable conformation of polyethylene. The energy difference between these two conformations is given as $2.4\text{kJ}\text{mol}{}^{\text{-1}}$.