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UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist

Chemist

  • 3 descriptive papers
  • 200 marks each
  • 3 h per paper

Mains Paper III covers analytical and organic chemistry.

UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist, Mains · 2025 · Mains Paper III

Q7(b)(i). 6π electrocyclic ring closure: thermal and photochemical modes

Question

Following are examples of pericyclic reactions. Predict the pathway (thermal/photochemical) and the mode of rotation involved in each case. Also provide the HOMO involved, with correct phase relationships, in both pathways. [diphenyl hexatriene giving A and B; scheme given in the paper]

Answer in brief

Triene → B (cis): thermal, disrotatory, HOMO = ψ₃. Triene → A (trans): photochemical, conrotatory, HOMO = ψ₄.

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The full model answer

As written for the answer booklet: the diagram carries the working, the lines stay short. Read here only; it is not offered as a download.

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Coverselectrocyclic reactionWoodward-Hoffmann rulesconrotatorydisrotatoryHOMOhexatriene