A Levels Chemistry (9701)•9701/12/O/N/21
Explanation
Homolytic Fission Forms Free Radicals
Steps:
- Identify products: CH₃Br decomposes to CH₃• (methyl radical) and Br• (bromine radical).
- Recall bond fission types: Homolytic splits bond equally, giving one electron to each atom; heterolytic splits unequally, forming ions.
- Match to products: Free radicals indicate unpaired electrons from equal electron sharing.
- Confirm: Radical formation defines homolytic decomposition.
Why A is correct:
- Homolytic fission breaks the C-Br bond symmetrically, with each fragment retaining one electron to form neutral radicals, as per radical chemistry definitions.
Why the others are wrong:
- B: Heterolytic fission produces ions (CH₃⁺ and Br⁻), not radicals.
- C: Heterolytic fission produces ions (CH₃⁺ and Br⁻), not radicals.
- D: Heterolytic fission produces ions (CH₃⁺ and Br⁻), not radicals.
Final answer: A
Topic: Halogen compounds
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