The discussion centers on the apparent contradiction between the energy barrier for rotation in ethane (2.9 kcal/mol) and the energy available at room temperature (0.593 kcal/mol). It clarifies that the 0.593 kcal/mol figure represents average energy per degree of freedom, specifically kT at room temperature, indicating that while individual molecules may not have enough energy to overcome the barrier, a significant fraction can due to thermal fluctuations. The rapid interconversion of ethane conformers is attributed to frequent molecular collisions that can transfer energy sufficient to surpass the rotational barrier. The conversation also touches on the degrees of freedom in ethane, noting that it has multiple modes of motion, including internal rotation. Additionally, the impact of solvent on the rotational dynamics of ethane is questioned, suggesting a need for further exploration into how these dynamics change in different environments.
