shown in the figure. Decalin has two cyclohexane rings fused together which are most stable in their chair form. So it is expected that the two fused cyclohexane rings in decalin should exist in their chair form.
Can decalin show geometrical isomerism?
Geometric isomerism exists in these compounds because the ring junction can be either cis or trans. The decalin ring junction can have hydrogen atoms on the same side or opposite sides. When they are on the same side, the molecule is cis-decalin. When they are on opposite sides, the molecule is trans-decalin.
What is decalin used for?
Decalin (decahydronaphthalene, also known as bicyclodecane and sometimes decaline), a bicyclic organic compound, is an industrial solvent. A colorless liquid with an aromatic odor, it is used as a solvent for many resins or fuel additives.