(a) Two stereoisomers of a bromodecalin are shown. Although the difference between these stereoisomers may seem trivial,...

Question:

(a) Two stereoisomers of a bromodecalin are shown. Although the difference between these stereoisomers may seem trivial, one isomer undergoes elimination with KOH much faster than the other. Predict the products of these eliminations, and explain the large difference in the ease of elimination.

(b) Predict which of the following compounds will undergo elimination with KOH faster, and explain why. Predict the major product that will be formed.