U3S2 synthesis of chloroalkanes Flashcards
1
Q
What is a free radical
A
- particle with an unpaired electron
- form when a covalent bond splits equally
- very reactive
2
Q
What are the four steps of making chloroalkanes
A
- initiation
- propagation
- substitution
- termination
3
Q
What is initation
A
- sunlight provides energy to break Cl-Cl bonds
4
Q
What is propagation
A
- free radicals are used up
- Cl first attacks alkane molecule, creating an alkyl free radical and HCl
- new alkyl free radical attacks another Cl2 creating a chloroalkyl and a Cl free radical
5
Q
What happens when chlorine is in excess
A
- hydrogen atoms will all be replaced by chlorine atoms
6
Q
What is termination
A
- free radicals join together
7
Q
A
