Question Detail
Question
Which of the following correctly ranks the cycloalkanes in order of increasing ring strain per methylene?
Correct Answer
Option B is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
Ring strain per CH2 increases with decreasing ring size (except cyclopropane has the most). The correct order of increasing ring strain is: cyclohexane < cyclopentane < cyclobutane < cyclopropane. Cyclohexane is almost strain-free, and cyclopropane has the most strain.
Hint
Which cycloalkane has the least ring strain, and which has the most?