Do the following compounds have the E or the Z configuration?
e.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the double bond in the compound. The E/Z configuration applies to alkenes (compounds with a carbon-carbon double bond). Locate the double bond in the structure provided.
2. Step 2: Assign priorities to the groups attached to each carbon of the double bond using the Cahn-Ingold-Prelog (CIP) priority rules. These rules state that the group with the higher atomic number gets the higher priority. If the first atoms are the same, move to the next atoms in the chain until a difference is found.
3. Step 3: Determine the relative positions of the higher-priority groups on each carbon of the double bond. If the higher-priority groups are on the same side of the double bond, the configuration is Z (from the German word 'zusammen,' meaning 'together'). If they are on opposite sides, the configuration is E (from the German word 'entgegen,' meaning 'opposite').
4. Step 4: Verify your assignments by carefully checking the structure and ensuring that the priorities were assigned correctly and the spatial arrangement of the groups is accurately interpreted.
5. Step 5: Label the compound with the correct configuration (E or Z) based on your analysis. If there are multiple double bonds, repeat the process for each one and specify the configuration for each double bond.

Key Concepts

Cis-Trans Isomerism

Cis-trans isomerism, also known as geometric isomerism, occurs in compounds with restricted rotation around a double bond or a ring structure. In this context, 'cis' refers to substituents being on the same side of the double bond, while 'trans' indicates they are on opposite sides. Understanding this concept is crucial for determining the E/Z configuration of alkenes.

E/Z Configuration

The E/Z nomenclature is used to describe the stereochemistry of alkenes based on the priority of substituents attached to the double bond. The 'E' (from the German 'Entgegen') configuration indicates that the highest priority groups are on opposite sides, while 'Z' (from 'Zusammen') indicates they are on the same side. This system is essential for accurately describing the spatial arrangement of atoms in a molecule.

Cahn-Ingold-Prelog Priority Rules

The Cahn-Ingold-Prelog (CIP) priority rules are a set of guidelines used to assign priority to substituents based on atomic number and connectivity. According to these rules, the atom with the higher atomic number receives higher priority. These priorities are critical for determining whether a compound is classified as E or Z, as they dictate the arrangement of substituents around the double bond.