wurtz limitation

Question

Wurtz reaction is less suitable for synthesis of unsymmetrical alkanes because:

RankGuru · Accepted Answer

1. **Wurtz Reaction**: $2R-X + 2Na 	o R-R + 2NaX$.
2. **Unsymmetrical attempt**: If we use $R-X$ and $R'-X$ (e.g., Methyl chloride and Ethyl chloride).
3. **Randomness**: The Sodium atoms cannot distinguish between $R$ and $R'$. They will couple any two radicals that meet.
4. **Products**:
   - $R-R$ (Ethane)
   - $R'-R'$ (Butane)
   - $R-R'$ (Propane)
5. **Problem**: A **mixture** of three different alkanes is formed. Their boiling points are often close, making separation difficult. Thus, it's efficiently used only for symmetrical alkanes.

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wurtz limitation

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