The Wurtz Reaction is a useful method for coupling alkyl halides to form Symmetrical Alkanes.

• Reaction: $2R-X+2Na\stackrel{\text{dry ether}}{\to }R-R+2NaX$
• Mechanism: Probably involves an organosodium intermediate followed by displacement of the second halide.
• Example: Two molecules of Methyl bromide react with sodium to give Ethane.
• Limitation: If two different alkyl halides are used, a mixture of three alkanes is produced, which is difficult to separate.