Chapter 10, Problem 1PP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The radicals, in order of theirs decreasing stability, are to be listed.

Concept introduction:

A molecule that contains at least one unpaired electron is known as a radical.

The relative stability of radicals is the same as that of carbocations.

The stability of radicals is as follows:

$3^{°}>2^{°}>1^{°}>\text{methyl}$

Answer to Problem 1PP

Solution:

Explanation of Solution

The radical is a methyl radical. So, it is the least stable.

The radical is given as follows:

The carbon containing the unpaired electron is primary. Thus, the radical is a primary radical.

The radical is given as follows:

The carbon containing the unpaired electron is tertiary. Thus, the radical is a tertiary radical.

The radical is given as follows:

The carbon containing the unpaired electron is secondary. Thus, the radical is a secondary radical.

Therefore, the tertiary radical is the most stable and the methyl radical is the least stable.

Hence, the decreasing order of the stability of the radical is as follows: