C2v Cyclohexane Boat

The Indigo® Instruments 68821W molecular model kit comes with parts to build several structures illustrating C2v point group symmetry including cyclohexane. 

A molecule’s symmetry, such as C2vC_{2v}C2v, simpliifies the complexity of molecular orbital calculations such as symmetry-adapted linear combinations (SALCs) & aids chemists in applying group theory to predict molecular vibrations, electronic transitions, and bonding characteristics.

This includes predicting IR and Raman activity by its vibrational nodes. That is, the nature of its bonding patterns and molecular stability as it relates to ligand field and molecular orbital theory. It can help understand the symmetry of a transition state, reveal mechanistic details and explain preferential product formation. Specific electromagnetic and dipole properties can also be ascertained that affect molecular interactions, solubility, and reactivity.

Cyclohexane's chair conformation has C2vC_{2v}C2v symmetry which reflects its most stable & strain free conformation. This is its identity element, the basic basic symmetry operation which leaves the molecule unchanged. Cyclohexane's chair form C2C_2C2 axis passes vertically through the center of the molecule. This produces two vertical mirror planes. One bisects two opposite carbon-carbon bonds & the other bisects the two other pairs of opposite bonds in the chair form.

The C2vC_{2v}C2v chair form symmetry minimizes steric hindrance and ring strain, making it the most stable conformation of cyclohexane. It further indicates that cyclohexane has no permanent dipole moment and has minimal strain as its bonds are staggered.