Mechanisms Definitions

Question 1

Homolytic Fission

Answer 1

when a bond breaks and one electron goes to each atom, forming radicals

Question 2

Heterolytic Fission

Answer 2

bond breaks and the two electrons go to one atom, forming a charged species that can then be attacked by electrophiles or nucleophiles

Question 3

Addition

Answer 3

reaction where two molecules react to form a single molecule

Question 4

Substitution

Answer 4

reaction where an atom or group of atoms in one molecule is replaced by another atom or group of atoms

Question 5

Elimination

Answer 5

reaction where the elements of a simple molecule (e.g HBR) are removed from an organic molecule and are not replaced by any other atom or group of atoms

Question 6

Nucleophile

Answer 6

species that seeks out positive centres (anions)

- donates electrons

Question 7

Electrophile

Answer 7

species that seeks out negative centres (cations)

-accepts electrons

Question 8

Primary carbocation

Answer 8

one alkyl group attached to +ve carbon

Question 9

Secondary carbocation

Answer 9

two alkyl groups attached to +ve carbon