What is the order of stability for

• I) I-butene
• II) cis-2-butene
• III) trans-2-butene

A) I < II < III

B) I > II > III

C) III > I > II

D) I > II > III

The stability of alkenes is influenced by their structure, particularly the arrangement of substituents around the double bond. In this case, we are comparing I-butene, cis-2-butene, and trans-2-butene.

Stability Factors

Generally, the stability of alkenes increases with the number of alkyl groups attached to the double bond. Additionally, trans isomers are typically more stable than cis isomers due to reduced steric strain.

Analysis of Each Compound

• I-butene: This compound has one alkyl group attached to the double bond, making it less stable.
• cis-2-butene: This has two alkyl groups, but the cis arrangement leads to steric hindrance, reducing stability compared to its trans counterpart.
• trans-2-butene: With two alkyl groups in a trans configuration, this compound is the most stable due to minimized steric strain.

Order of Stability

Based on the analysis, the order of stability from most stable to least stable is:

• trans-2-butene (III)
• cis-2-butene (II)
• I-butene (I)

Therefore, the correct answer is C) III > I > II.