True or false: Alkanes undergo substitution by a radical chain mechanism,even though they are very unreactive?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Alkanes can undergo substitution reactions by a radical chain mechanism, even though they are relatively unreactive. The mechanism involves the initiation, propagation, and termination steps of a radical chain reaction. In the initiation step, a free radical is formed through homolytic cleavage of a weak bond by heat or light. In the propagation step, the free radical abstracts a hydrogen atom from the alkane and forms a new radical. This process continues until the radical reacts with another molecule, leading to termination of the chain. While alkanes have low reactivity due to their strong C-C and C-H bonds, radical halogenation reactions can occur under appropriate conditions.

True or False: Alkanes Undergo Substitution by a Radical Chain