Question

which isomer is more stable?
(A) Cis
(B) Trans
(C) Both
(D) None

Answer 1

Hint: for determining which isomer is most stable:
The most stable isomer should possess the lowest value of $\Delta G$(same for determining stabilities of any other compound: lowest $\Delta G$ = most stable).

Complete step by step solution:
We have been provided with cis and trans isomers we need to tell which of them is more stable,
So, for that:
Isomers are polyatomic ions or molecules with an identical molecular formula which possess the same number of atoms of each element but are arranged as distinct arrangements of atoms in space.
Cis-trans isomers are compounds that have different configurations because of the presence of a rigid structure in their molecule. Alkenes and cyclic compounds can exhibit cis-trans isomerism (the two hydrogen atoms are on opposite sides).
We need to state which of them is more stable:
So, we know the stability of isomer depend upon the value of $\Delta G$,
So, from this, we can say that,
Trans isomers are more stable as in trans isomers same group or atom on two different carbon atoms are located on the opposite sides of the carbon-carbon double bond and hence the trans molecule is non-polar. The polarity on both the sides cancels out. So, trans-isomer stability is more than cis.
So, we can say that trans isomer is more stable.

Therefore, we can infer that option (B) is correct.

Note: Cis isomers are less stable and higher in energy molecules because they create a destabilizing effect in which the two larger groups bump into one another, leading to electric repulsion.