Which is more stable, cis - or trans-1,2-dimethyl cyclobutane and whyh?

Explanation

To determine which is more stable between cis- and trans-1,2-dimethylcyclobutane, we can analyze the molecular structures and the steric interactions present in each configuration.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Draw the Structures**:
- Start by drawing the cyclobutane ring and placing the two methyl groups at the 1 and 2 positions.
- For the **cis** isomer, both methyl groups are on the same side of the ring.
- For the **trans** isomer, the methyl groups are on opposite sides of the ring.
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