Halogenation of Methane (Chlorination)

CH₄ + Cl₂ → CH₃Cl + HCl

Aperçu

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.

Participants

Rôle	Substance	Coefficient	État
Réactif	Methane CH₄	1	(g)
Réactif	Chlorine Cl	1	(g)
Produit	Hydrochloric Acid HCl	1	(g)

Exemple du quotidien

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

Importance industrielle

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

Propriétés

Type: Organic
Réversible: Non
Énergie: Exothermique
ΔH: -98,0 kJ/mol
Catalyseur: UV light or heat

Réactions associées

Epoxidation of Alkenes (mCPBA) Swern Oxidation Oxidation of Secondary Alcohol to Ketone E2 Elimination (Dehydrohalogenation) Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate) Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde Kolbe Electrolysis Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation Beckmann Rearrangement (Cyclohexanone Oxime) Dehydration of Ethanol

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).