Halogenation of Methane (Chlorination)

CH4 + Cl2 → CH3Cl + HCl

Übersicht

Methane undergoes free radical substitution with chlorine in the presence of UV light or heat. The mechanism involves initiation (Cl₂ → 2Cl·), propagation (Cl· + CH₄ → CH₃· + HCl, CH₃· + Cl₂ → CH₃Cl + Cl·), and termination. Further substitution can produce CH₂Cl₂, CHCl₃, and CCl₄.

Teilnehmer

Rolle Substanz Koeffizient Zustand
Reaktant Methane CH₄ 1 (g)
Reaktant Chlorine Cl 1 (g)
Produkt Hydrochloric Acid HCl 1 (g)

Alltägliches Beispiel

Chloroform (CHCl₃), historically used as an anesthetic, is produced by multiple chlorination of methane.

Industrielle Bedeutung

Chloromethane (CH₃Cl) is used as a methylating agent and refrigerant. Dichloromethane is a widely used solvent. Chloroform is an important chemical intermediate.

Eigenschaften

Typ
Organic
Reversibel
Nein
Energie
Exotherm
ΔH
-98,0 kJ/mol
Katalysator
UV light or heat

Verwandte Reaktionen

Swern Oxidation Oxidation of Secondary Alcohol to Ketone Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate) Kolbe Electrolysis Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation Beckmann Rearrangement (Cyclohexanone Oxime) Catalytic Hydrogenation of Ethylene Condensation Polymerization (Nylon 6,6) Cope Rearrangement Epoxidation of Alkenes (mCPBA)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Halogenation of Methane (Chlorination)?
The balanced equation is: CH₄ + Cl₂ → CH₃Cl + HCl.
What type of reaction is Halogenation of Methane (Chlorination)?
Halogenation of Methane (Chlorination) is a organic reaction.
Is Halogenation of Methane (Chlorination) exothermic or endothermic?
Halogenation of Methane (Chlorination) is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -98.0 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Halogenation of Methane (Chlorination)?
This reaction requires a catalyst (UV light or heat).