Halogenation of Methane (Chlorination)
CH4 + Cl2 → CH3Cl + HCl
Overview
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
| Role | Substance | Coefficient | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reactant | Methane CH₄ | 1 | (g) |
| Reactant | Chlorine Cl | 1 | (g) |
| Product | Hydrochloric Acid HCl | 1 | (g) |
Everyday Example
Chloroform (CHCl₃), historically used as an anesthetic, is produced by multiple chlorination of methane.
Industrial Importance
Chloromethane (CH₃Cl) is used as a methylating agent and refrigerant. Dichloromethane is a widely used solvent. Chloroform is an important chemical intermediate.
Properties
- Type
- Organic
- Reversible
- No
- Energy
- Exothermic
- ΔH
- -98.0 kJ/mol
- Catalyst
- UV light or heat
Related Reactions
Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde
Amide Formation (Acetic Acid + Ammonia)
Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation
Beckmann Rearrangement (Cyclohexanone Oxime)
Bromination of Ethylene
Buchwald-Hartwig Amination
Cannizzaro Reaction of Formaldehyde
Catalytic Hydrogenation of Ethylene
Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate)
Condensation Polymerization (Nylon 6,6)
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).