OZ 5 - Reaction Mechanisms

Question 1

What is the most important factor in determining the rate of hydrolysis of haloalkanes?

Answer 1

The carbon-halogen bond enthalpy is the most important factor as is proven by the increased rate of hydrolysis as we move down group 7 for haloalkanes

Question 2

How are polarity of a halogen containing molecule and its boiling point related?

Answer 2

The greater the polarity of the molecules, the stronger the intermolecular dipole bonds will be. The bonds will take more energy to break so the boiling point of the halogen compound will be higher

Question 3

What is the difference between homolytic and heterolytic bond fission?

Answer 3

In homolytic bond fission each of the bonded atoms gets one electron from the shared pair producing radicals. In heterolytic bond fission one of the bonded atoms gets both of the shared electrons

Question 4

What is a radical?

Answer 4

A highly reactive atom, molecule or ion due to a single, unpaired electron