Why can there be one major product and one minor product after electrophilic addition takes place across a double bond?

This formation of a major product and minor product only occurs if the double bond is unsymmetrical (when the carbon atoms involved in the double bond are bonded to different groups), for example in butene. When electrophilic addition takes place with a hydrogen halide (HBr) we will form these two different products. We can see that the hydrogen atom and bromine atom have been added to different sides. If we look at the mechanism we can see which one is going to be the major product by looking at which intermediate has the most stabilised carbocation. Remember that a tertiary carbocation is more stabilised than a secondary carbocation and a secondary carbocation is more stabilised than a primary carbocation. I would then ask the student an exam type question, in order for them to apply this.

CF
Answered by Craig F. Chemistry tutor

22451 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why is methylamine a stronger base than phenylamine?


Phosphorus(III) chloride molecules are pyramidal with a bond angle less than 109.5°. Explain why a phosphorus(III) chloride molecule has this shape and bond angle.


What is the difference between exothermic and endothermic?


A solution of acetic acid and sodium acetate was prepared, by dissolving 4.1 g of sodium acetate in 750 cm^3 of 0.085 mol/dm^3 acetic acid, at 25 degrees. 10 Cm^3 of 2 mol/dm^3 HCl was added. Ka is 1.76*10^-5, calculate and explain the change in pH


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences