Haloalkanes - Organic (6)

Question 1

What is the trend in reactivity of primary, secondary and tertiary haloalkanes? (1)

Answer 1

1. Tertiary most reactive -> Primary least reactive

Question 2

Explain, using bond enthalpy, the trend in reactivity of Chloro, Bromo, and Iodoalkanes

Answer 2

1. Iodoalkanes are the most reactive -> Chloroalkanes least reactive
2. The C-I bond is weakest as Iodine is least electronegative therefore a longer bond distance
3. Therefore, less energy is needed to break the C-I bond to initiate a reaction

Question 3

Define Nucleophile (1)

Answer 3

1. A species that donates a lone pair of electrons to form a covalent bond with an electron-deficient atom