Mechanisms Flashcards
What is an elimination reaction?
Organic reaction in which a small molecule is removed from a larger molecule leaving a double bond in the larger molecule
What is a condensation reaction?
And addition reaction followed by an elimination reaction
Two reactants combine to form a larger molecule with the elimination of a small molecule
What is a substitution reaction?
One atom or a group or atoms is replaced by another atom or group or atoms
What is a hydrolysis reaction?
The splitting up of a molecule by reaction with water
Organic compounds often require refluxing to bring about this reaction
What is a polymerisation reaction?
The joining of monomers to form a long train
Depending on the reaction that joins the monomers there are two types of polymerisations: addition and condensation
What is homolytic bond breaking?
The breaking of a covalent bond to form free radicals, both with an unpaid electron
What is heterolytic fission?
The breaking of a covalent bond to form to charged ions. One ion takes both of the electrons from the bond
What is an electrophile?
An atom that is attracted to an area of high electron density
What is a nucelophile?
An atom that is attracted to an electron deficient centre
What does whether it is an electrophile or nucleophile depend on?
The polarity of bonds within a molecule
What is an addition reaction?
When two or more substances react to form a single product
What can the reaction between alkanes and halogens be classed as?
Free radical substitution
UV light splits the halogen molecule to form free radicals which react with the alkane
What can the reaction between bromine and hydrogen bromide be classed as?
Electrophilic addition reaction
Double bond is electron-rich centre for the attack of an electrophile
What can the reaction between 1-iodopropane and aqueous potassium hydroxide be classed as?
Nucleophilic substitution
Hydroxide ion acts as a nucleophile, attacking the electron deficient carbon atom. The hydroxide ion forms a bond with the carbon atom, breaking the C-I bond
Why does the ionisation energy decrease down the group?
The increase in atomic radius causes the outermost electrons to experience less of a pull and experience further shielding from inner electrons
