Radical addition to alkenes is not effective for the synthesis of iodo- and chloroalkanes. Using your knowledge of the mechanism of this reaction, along with bond dissociation energies, explain why the radical additions of HI and HCl are not effective. (Assume ∆H = 65 kcal/ mol for the C–C π bond.)
Ch. 8 - Alkenes I: Properties and Electrophilic Additions

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Mullins 1st Edition
Ch. 8 - Alkenes I: Properties and Electrophilic Additions
Problem 37c
Mullins 1st Edition
Ch. 8 - Alkenes I: Properties and Electrophilic Additions
Problem 37cChapter 7, Problem 37c
Which reagent system (HBr or HBr, H2O2) would you use to carry out the following transformations?
(c) 
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the type of reaction: The transformation involves the addition of bromine (Br) to an alkene, which is a typical electrophilic addition reaction.
Consider the regioselectivity: The product shows bromine added to the less substituted carbon of the double bond, indicating anti-Markovnikov addition.
Select the reagent system: Anti-Markovnikov addition of HBr to alkenes is achieved using HBr in the presence of peroxides (H₂O₂).
Understand the mechanism: The presence of peroxides leads to the formation of free radicals, which initiate the anti-Markovnikov addition by adding Br to the less substituted carbon.
Conclude the reagent choice: For the given transformation, use HBr with H₂O₂ to achieve the desired anti-Markovnikov addition of bromine.

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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Markovnikov's Rule
Markovnikov's Rule states that in the addition of HX to an alkene, the hydrogen atom will attach to the carbon with the greater number of hydrogen atoms already attached, while the halide (X) will attach to the carbon with fewer hydrogen atoms. This rule helps predict the major product of electrophilic addition reactions.
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Anti-Markovnikov Addition
Anti-Markovnikov addition occurs when the addition of HX to an alkene results in the halide attaching to the less substituted carbon atom. This is typically facilitated by the presence of peroxides (like H2O2) in the reaction, which alters the mechanism and leads to the formation of the less stable radical intermediate.
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Reagent Selection in Organic Reactions
Choosing the appropriate reagent system is crucial in organic chemistry as it influences the reaction pathway and the final product. In this case, HBr alone would lead to Markovnikov addition, while HBr in the presence of H2O2 promotes anti-Markovnikov addition, making it essential to select the right system based on the desired outcome.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
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Textbook Question
Which reagent system (HBr or HBr, H2O2) would you use to carry out the following transformations?
(a)
2
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Textbook Question
Provide the expected product for the reaction of each of the following alkenes with H2SO4 and H2O.
(b)
2
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Textbook Question
Provide the expected product for the reaction of each of the following alkenes with H2SO4 and H2O.
(a)
1
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Textbook Question
Provide an arrow-pushing mechanism that rationalizes the formation of each of the products you predicted in Assessment 8.35 (ii). Make sure your mechanism accounts for all products formed, including stereoisomers and regioisomers, where applicable.
Textbook Question
Which reagent system (HBr or HBr, H2O2) would you use to carry out the following transformations?
(b)
1
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