Free Radical Reactions: Formation of Chloromethane

Introduction

• Focus on practicing writing free radical reactions.
• Example reaction: formation of chloromethane.

Steps in Free Radical Reaction

1. Initiation Step

• Involves a halogen (e.g., chlorine).
• Halogen splits into radicals due to UV light exposure.
• Example: Chlorine molecules split to form two chloride radicals.

2. Propagation Step

• First Reaction:
  • Chloride radical reacts with a methane molecule.
  • Chloride radical reacts with a hydrogen atom to form HCl.
  • Leaves behind a methyl radical.
• Second Reaction:
  • Methyl radical reacts with chlorine molecules.
  • Creates chloromethane and a new chloride radical.
• Key point: Propagation involves using one radical and producing another radical.

3. Termination Step

• Two radicals react to form a new molecule.
• Possible Termination Reactions:
  • Two chloride radicals form a chlorine molecule.
  • Two methyl radicals form ethane.
  • A methyl radical and a chloride radical form chloromethane.
• Result: Free radical reactions yield a mixture of various products.

Conclusion

• Encouraged to pause and practice with provided question.
• Reminder to subscribe to the channel for more content.

• Note: Free radical reactions are characterized by the formation and consumption of radical species, leading to a variety of products.