Asterane

Asterane is a polycyclic alkane with the chemical formula C₁₀H₁₆. Its structure consists of five fused cyclopropane rings arranged in a tetrahedral fashion around a central carbon atom. The central carbon atom is connected to each cyclopropane ring. Asterane is considered a highly strained molecule due to the bond angles forced upon the cyclopropane rings and their arrangement around the central quaternary carbon.

The synthesis of asterane is challenging due to its complex and strained structure. The molecule is of interest to chemists studying strain energy, bonding theory, and the limits of organic synthesis. Its properties differ significantly from those of typical alkanes due to its unique geometry and high strain energy. Research into asterane and related molecules contributes to a deeper understanding of molecular structure and reactivity.