Are the CF3 groups in 2,2-bis(trifluoromethyl)oxirane eclipsed or staggered? Insights from rotational spectroscopy and quantum chemical calculations

► We have recorded the chirped pulse Fourier transform microwave spectrum of 2,2-bis(trifluoromethyl)oxirane. ► We have calculated a portion of the potential energy surface pertaining to the conformation of the opposing CF3 groups. ► The opposing CF3 groups adopt an eclipsed conformation in the zero point but are staggered at the potential minimum.