Reaction Mechanism of Cl2 and CHCl3

In summary, the reaction between Cl2 and CHCl3 produces CCl4 and HCl through a free radical substitution mechanism. The solvent, typically a halogenated hydrocarbon, acts as a source of hydrogen atoms. Factors such as temperature, concentration, and catalysts can affect the rate of the reaction. This reaction is important in industrial processes for the production of CCl4, used in various applications, but is becoming less common due to its environmental impact.
  • #1
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Homework Statement
Which response identifies the intermediate(s) in the following mechanism?
Cl2 -> 2 Cl (fast)
Cl + CHCl3 -> CCl3 + HCl (slow)
CCl3 + Cl -> CCl4 (fast)

A) Cl
B) CCl3
C) CHCl3
D) Both Cl and CHCl3
Relevant Equations
reaction mechanism
I think the answer is both A) Cl and B) CCl3, since both are produced and used up. The correct solution is only A). Could anyone explain why? Thanks.
 
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  • #2
Cl is produced quickly by
$$Cl_2\rightarrow 2Cl$$
and consumed slowly by
$$Cl+CHCl_3\rightarrow CCl_3+HCl$$
On the other hand, ##CCl3## is produced slowly and consumed quickly.

IMO both A) and B) are intermediates, but this problem uses a different logic.
 

FAQ: Reaction Mechanism of Cl2 and CHCl3

What is the overall reaction equation for the reaction between Cl2 and CHCl3?

The overall reaction equation for the reaction between Cl2 and CHCl3 is:
Cl2 + CHCl3 → CCl4 + HCl

What is the mechanism of the reaction between Cl2 and CHCl3?

The mechanism of the reaction between Cl2 and CHCl3 is a substitution reaction. The chlorine atom in Cl2 attacks the carbon atom in CHCl3, forming a C-Cl bond and releasing HCl. This is followed by a second substitution reaction where the other chlorine atom in Cl2 attacks the remaining hydrogen atom in CHCl3, forming CCl4.

What is the role of CHCl3 in the reaction with Cl2?

CHCl3 acts as the substrate or reactant in the reaction with Cl2. It provides the carbon atom for the substitution reaction to occur and ultimately forms the product, CCl4.

What factors can affect the rate of the Cl2 and CHCl3 reaction?

The rate of the Cl2 and CHCl3 reaction can be affected by several factors, including temperature, concentration of reactants, and the presence of a catalyst. Higher temperatures and concentrations of reactants can increase the rate of the reaction, while the presence of a catalyst can lower the activation energy and speed up the reaction.

Is the reaction between Cl2 and CHCl3 exothermic or endothermic?

The reaction between Cl2 and CHCl3 is exothermic, meaning it releases heat energy. This is because the energy required to break the bonds in the reactants is less than the energy released when new bonds are formed in the products.

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