The
explanation behind the stability of α-d-mannose in comparison to β-d-mannose
is found in its structure. The α-d-mannose does not have an axial hydroxyl
group at C2 while it is found to be present in β-d-mannose. Meanwhile β-d-glucose
is more stable than α -d-mannose because of all its OH groups found in the
equatorial axis which lessens steric hindrance.
