What can be inferred about the stability of Compounds 4a and 4b based on their formation percentages?

• A. They are equally stable
• B. Compound 4a is less stable than Compound 4b
• C. Compound 4a is more stable than Compound 4b
• D. Stability cannot be determined

Answer: (C)

The inference about the stability of Compounds 4a and 4b based on their formation percentages relies on the principle that higher formation percentages typically correlate with greater stability. If Compound 4a has a higher formation percentage than Compound 4b, it suggests that 4a is favored in the equilibrium state of the reaction, indicating that it is more stable.

In chemical systems, stability can often be inferred from thermodynamic favorability. A compound that forms more readily—displayed through a higher percentage of formation—suggests that it is lower in energy compared to its counterpart, making it more stable. Therefore, if the data indicates that Compound 4a has a higher percentage of formation, this directly supports the conclusion that it is indeed more stable than Compound 4b.

This reasoning aligns with the principles of chemical equilibrium and stability, where more stable configurations are usually favored in a mixture. Consequently, the assertion that Compound 4a is more stable than Compound 4b, based on their respective formation percentages, is valid.