Question detail
What is the role of ultraviolet light in the chlorination of methane?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Alkanes
Question
What is the role of ultraviolet light in the chlorination of methane?
Answer
Ultraviolet light provides the energy needed to initiate the free-radical substitution reaction by breaking the Cl-Cl bond, forming chlorine radicals.
Explanation
This question assesses the student's understanding of the initiation step in free-radical substitution. The answer is strong as it clearly explains the necessity of UV light for radical formation, which is crucial for the chlorination process.
Common mistake
Incorrect Equation for Chlorination of Methane
Students often write the chlorination reaction of methane as CH4 + Cl2 → CH3Cl + HCl without balancing it.
To balance the equation, use the rule of conservation of mass. The balanced equation is CH4 + Cl2 → CH3Cl + HCl. This shows that one molecule of methane reacts with one molecule of chlorine to produce one molecule of chloromethane and one molecule of hydrogen chloride.
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