2-butene Memes

The molecule shown is 2-butene, which exists in two forms: cis and trans isomers. The meme brilliantly plays on the word "transphobic" by showing the trans isomer of 2-butene and claiming to be afraid of it. In organic chemistry, trans isomers have groups on opposite sides of the double bond, while cis isomers have them on the same side. This molecule is specifically trans -2-butene with methyl groups (CH₃) positioned diagonally from each other. The molecular pun is peak chemistry nerd humor—being literally afraid of a trans configuration! Chemistry students everywhere are quietly snickering in the back of lecture halls.