Predicting relative stereochemistry

[hushh]

I'm looking at a question that is asking me to predict the 'relative stereochemistry' and 'draw the predicted structures' for cinnamic acid, cis-stillbene and trans-stillbene.

 

My knowledge on stereochemistry is somewhat limited, as I just learned it this week. Could someone explain the solution to the problem for me please. I'm quite confused..

[insane_alien]

okay, you know that stereochemistry concerns a point or bond in the molecule which has 4 groups(different) attached to it. it basically wants you to draw out all the possible variations.

[greysteel_M6]

/\ the question isn't to draw out all possible variations, it points to predicting the relative stability, looking up stilbene there's 2 phynls that are attached at the benzylic position and double bonded, of course the trans isomer will be most stable

[Karnage]

also in addition to realtive stabilities you have to look at possibilities of R,s configurations, enantiomers, and meso compounds