Chapter 22, Problem 107RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The products formed when one mole of benzene is added to one mole of bromine $\left({\text{Br}}_{\text{2}}\right)$, and those formed when benzene, ${\text{Br}}_{\text{2}}$ and a ${\text{FeBr}}_{\text{3}}$ catalyst are heated together, are to be written.

Concept Information:

The reaction between benzene and Br₂ is based on the process of electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction.

An electrophile is either a positively charged or neutral species that accepts an electron to bond to a nucleophile. For example, benzene has pi bonds and is a nucleophile.

The reaction between benzene and the halogen-like bromine requires the help of a catalyst as it helps in speeding up the reaction. Without the presence of the catalyst, the colour of the benzene mixture remains orange and no reaction takes place.