Which one of the following conformations of cyclohexane is chiral?

Options

A. Chiral
B. Twist boat
C. Boat
D. Rigid

Explanation

To determine which conformation of cyclohexane is chiral, we need to analyze the symmetry of the different conformations of cyclohexane. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Understand Chirality
Chirality refers to a molecule that cannot be superimposed on its mirror image. For a molecule to be chiral, it must lack a plane of symmetry.

**Hint:** Remember that chiral molecules have non-superimposable mirror images.

### Step 2: Identify Cyclohexane Conformations
Cyclohexane can adopt several conformations, including:
- Chair conformation
- Boat conformation
- Twist-boat conformation

**Hint:** Familiarize yourself with the different conformations of cyclohexane and their structures.

### Step 3: Analyze the Chair Conformation
The chair conformation of cyclohexane is the most stable and has a symmetrical structure. It can be divided into two halves that are mirror images of each other, indicating that it has a plane of symmetry.

**Hint:** Visualize the chair conformation and look for symmetry.

### Step 4: Analyze the Boat Conformation
The boat conformation also has a plane of symmetry. The two ends of the boat can be seen as mirror images, which means it is not chiral.

**Hint:** Check for symmetry in the boat conformation as well.

### Step 5: Analyze the Twist-Boat Conformation
The twist-boat conformation does not have a plane of symmetry. The arrangement of atoms in this conformation is such that it cannot be superimposed on its mirror image, making it chiral.

**Hint:** Look closely at the twist-boat structure and see if you can find any symmetry.

### Step 6: Conclusion
Among the conformations of cyclohexane, the twist-boat conformation is the only one that is chiral, as it lacks a plane of symmetry.

**Final Answer:** The twist-boat conformation of cyclohexane is chiral.