Which of the following alkanes cannot have conformations?

Options

A. `(CH_(3))_(4)C`
B. `(CH_(3))_(3)CH`
C. `CH_(4)`
D. `(CH_(3))_(2)CHCH_(2)CH_(3)`

Answer

C

Explanation

To exhibit conformational isomerism, the molecule of a compound must have at least four atoms ( same or different) bonded sequentially only by sigma bonds, i.e., `R - D - S - V`. Methane `(CH_(4))` cannot have conformations as only three atoms are bonded sequentially `(H-underset(H)underset(|)overset(H)overset(|)C-H)`. Conformations are also exhibited by inorganic compounds, e.g., `H_(2)O_(2), H_(2)NOH`.