Halogenation of Alkanes: Mechanisms and Reactions

This lecture covers the halogenation of alkanes, focusing on the mechanisms involved in the chlorination and bromination processes. The instructor begins by discussing the importance of organic chemistry and its relevance to everyday compounds. The lecture details the steps of radical halogenation, including initiation, propagation, and termination, emphasizing the energy changes and selectivity of the reactions. The instructor explains the differences in reactivity among various halogens, particularly highlighting the exothermic nature of bromination compared to chlorination. The discussion includes the concept of transition states and the significance of activation energy in determining reaction pathways. Additionally, the lecture addresses the environmental implications of these reactions, including the production of hazardous byproducts like HCl. The instructor concludes by discussing alternative halogenation methods that may be less toxic and more efficient, reinforcing the importance of green chemistry in organic synthesis.