A recent article in Chemistry World revisits one of the most discussed stereoelectronic phenomena in organic chemistry: the anomeric effect. Instead of reinforcing the traditional, single-cause explanation based on hyperconjugation, the piece reports new computational evidence showing that the effect emerges from a balance of multiple contributors.
Based on a detailed study led by Igor Alabugin, the article discusses how stereoelectronics, electrostatics, molecular shape, and solvent effects work together to determine axial versus equatorial preferences in heterocycles. The message is not that classic models are wrong, but that they are incomplete when taken in isolation.
Rather than summarising all conclusions here, we strongly encourage readers—especially students and researchers interested in physical organic chemistry, stereoelectronic effects, and modern computational analysis—to read the full Chemistry World article. It provides a clear, balanced overview of a long-standing debate and shows how quantitative approaches can move the field beyond oversimplified explanations. Read it at:
https://www.chemistryworld.com/news/anomeric-effect-cannot-be-explained-by-hyperconjugation-alone/4022751.article
