Study GuideOrganic Chemistry II–Summary of Reactions1.Reactions of Alkyl HalidesAlkyl halides (R–X) are very reactive compounds because thecarbon–halogen bond is polar. Thismakes them useful starting materials for many important organic reactions.1. Hydrolysis (Formation of Alcohols)Alkyl halides can be converted intoalcoholsby hydrolysis.Reaction:•Alkyl halide reacts withaqueous NaOH•Heating is requiredWhat happens:•The halogen atom is replaced by ahydroxyl (–OH) group•Analcohol (R–OH)is formedThis reaction usually occurs bynucleophilic substitution.2. Williamson Ether Synthesis (Formation of Ethers)This reaction is used to prepareethers.Reaction:•Alkyl halide reacts withsodium alkoxide (R′O⁻Na⁺)What happens:•The halogen is replaced by an–OR′ group•Anether (R–OR′)is formedPreview Mode
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