Introduction - This script shows the differences in conformation of alpha and beta glucopyranose. We seek to understand why the beta conformer is more stable in solution than the alpha conformer. Scroll down until the text corresponding to the view is visible. (Based on structure files from Klotho).
This is beta-D-glucopyranose.
Note that the OH groups at C1 (YELLOW) and C2 (MAGENTA) are both equatorial and do not interact with each other.
The OHs also do not interact with ring hydrogens.
This is alpha-D-glucopyranose.
Note that the C2 OH (MAGENTA) is still equatorial, but the C1 OH (YELLOW) is now axial and the two groups interact with each other.
The C1 OH also interacts with the ring hydrogens at positions 3 and 5 (BLUE).