text: An example of a Curtin–Hammett scenario in which the more stable conformational isomer reacts more quickly is observed during the oxidation of piperidines. In the case of N-methyl piperidine, inversion at nitrogen between diastereomeric conformers is much faster than the rate of amine oxidation. The conformation which places the methyl group in the equatorial position is 3.16 kcal/mol more stable than the axial conformation. The product ratio of 95:5 indicates that the more stable conformer leads to the major product.