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In the Friedel-Crafts alkylation of benzene with ethyl chloride and AlCl₃ as a
catalyst, side reactions like polyalkylation often occur. (CLO 2) (2)
Explain why this happens and suggest a method to minimize polyalkylation in this
reaction.?
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In the Friedel-Crafts alkylation of benzene with ethyl chloride and Al...
Introduction to Friedel-Crafts Alkylation
Friedel-Crafts alkylation is a crucial reaction in organic chemistry that involves the introduction of alkyl groups into aromatic rings, typically using alkyl halides like ethyl chloride and a Lewis acid catalyst such as AlCl₃. However, this reaction often leads to polyalkylation, where multiple alkyl groups are added to the benzene ring.
Reasons for Polyalkylation
- Stability of Carbocation: The reaction proceeds through the formation of a carbocation, which can be stabilized by the aromatic system. Once the first alkylation occurs, the newly formed alkylbenzene can form another carbocation, leading to further alkylation.
- Excess Catalyst: The presence of excess AlCl₃ can enhance the carbocation stability, promoting more than one alkylation on the aromatic ring.
Methods to Minimize Polyalkylation
- Stoichiometric Control: Use a stoichiometric amount of ethyl chloride and AlCl₃ to limit the availability of the alkyl halide and catalyst. This reduces the likelihood of multiple alkylation events.
- Dilution: Conduct the reaction in a more dilute solution. A higher dilution decreases the concentration of reactive species, minimizing the chances of multiple reactions occurring on the same aromatic ring.
- Use of Deactivating Groups: Introducing electron-withdrawing groups on the benzene ring can help reduce its reactivity towards further alkylation. This can steer the reaction towards a more selective pathway.
- Temperature Control: Performing the reaction at lower temperatures can help in controlling the rate of reaction, allowing for selective alkylation without excessive polyalkylation.
By implementing these strategies, one can effectively minimize polyalkylation during the Friedel-Crafts alkylation of benzene.
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In the Friedel-Crafts alkylation of benzene with ethyl chloride and AlCl₃ as a catalyst, side reactions like polyalkylation often occur. (CLO 2) (2) Explain why this happens and suggest a method to minimize polyalkylation in this reaction.?
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In the Friedel-Crafts alkylation of benzene with ethyl chloride and AlCl₃ as a catalyst, side reactions like polyalkylation often occur. (CLO 2) (2) Explain why this happens and suggest a method to minimize polyalkylation in this reaction.? for UPSC 2025 is part of UPSC preparation. The Question and answers have been prepared according to the UPSC exam syllabus. Information about In the Friedel-Crafts alkylation of benzene with ethyl chloride and AlCl₃ as a catalyst, side reactions like polyalkylation often occur. (CLO 2) (2) Explain why this happens and suggest a method to minimize polyalkylation in this reaction.? covers all topics & solutions for UPSC 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, meanings, examples, exercises and tests below for In the Friedel-Crafts alkylation of benzene with ethyl chloride and AlCl₃ as a catalyst, side reactions like polyalkylation often occur. (CLO 2) (2) Explain why this happens and suggest a method to minimize polyalkylation in this reaction.?.
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