[PDF] risks of halogenoalkanes

What is the most common reaction of halogenoalkanes?

The most common reaction of the halogenoalkanes is nucleophilic substitution (S N 1 and S N 2 mechanisms) The type of mechanism depends on the nature of the halogenoalkane - primary halogenoalkanes react via S N 2 and tertiary halogenoalkanes via S N 1.

What are the disadvantages of halogens?

Due to their high effective nuclear charge, halogens are highly electronegative. Therefore, they are highly reactive and can gain an electron through reaction with other elements. Halogens can be harmful or lethal to biological organisms in sufficient quantities. electronegativity: The tendency of an atom to attract electrons to itself.

Why do halogenoalkanes dissolve in water?

The halogenoalkanes are insoluble in water. Using ethanol ensures that the halogenoalkane dissolves so it can react with the water molecules. Water has lone pair(s) of electrons on the oxygen atom. If hydroxide ions were used, a precipitate of silver hydroxide would form instantly. Ethanol is flammable. Silver nitrate is corrosive.

How does a nucleophile attack a halogenoalkane?

The first step in the mechanism is the loss of the halogenoalkane to produce a carbocation. A nucleophile would then attack the carbocation to produce a Carbon – Nucleophile bond and thus a new compound. The mechanism is seen below: