Conformational analysis and selective hydrolysis of 2,5-disubstituted-1,3-dioxane-2-carboxylic acid esters

5-Alkyl-2-methyl-2-carbomethoxy-1,3-dioxanes were found to have a cis preferential configuration in the equilibrium state, and the ester hydrolysis rate of the trans-isomers was faster than that of the cis-isomers. Conformational analysis and charge calculation of the carbomethoxy group in both dioxanes elucidated this selectivity.