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In the free radical chlorination of methane, the chain initiating step involves the formation of
  • a)
    Chlorine free radical [1994]
  • b)
    Hydrogen chloride
  • c)
    Methyl radical
  • d)
    Chloromethyl radical.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?
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Introduction to Free Radical Chlorination
The free radical chlorination of methane involves a series of steps that lead to the substitution of hydrogen atoms in methane (CH4) with chlorine atoms (Cl). The process can be broken down into several stages: initiation, propagation, and termination.
Chain Initiating Step
In the chain initiation step, the reaction begins with the generation of free radicals. This is crucial because free radicals are highly reactive species that drive the subsequent steps of the reaction.
Formation of Chlorine Free Radical
- The process starts when chlorine molecules (Cl2) are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light or heat.
- The energy from UV light or heat breaks the Cl-Cl bond, leading to the formation of two chlorine free radicals:
Cl2 → 2 Cl•
- These chlorine free radicals are essential for the chlorination process as they initiate the chain reaction.
Significance of Chlorine Free Radical
- The chlorine free radicals generated are highly reactive and will react with methane to form methyl radicals (CH3•) and hydrogen chloride (HCl).
- This reaction continues through multiple propagation steps until the desired chlorinated product is formed.
Other Options
- Hydrogen Chloride (HCl): This is formed later in the reaction during propagation, not in the initiation step.
- Methyl Radical (CH3•): While this is formed as a result of the chlorine free radical's reaction with methane, it is not formed in the initiation step.
- Chloromethyl Radical: This is also generated later in the reaction and is not part of the initial step.
Conclusion
The correct answer is option 'A' because the chain initiating step of the free radical chlorination of methane involves the formation of chlorine free radicals, which kickstart the entire chlorination process.
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