Chapter 23.1, Problem 2LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : To determine the formula of a halocarbon.

Concept Introduction : Halo carbons are those compounds in which one or more than one carbon is linked covalently to one or more than one halogen.

Answer to Problem 2LC

The general formula for Halocarbon is R-X

Where R is the alkyl group and X is halogen.

Explanation of Solution

Halo carbons contain halogens. Halogens are those compounds that belong to group 17. The elements such as fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine are considered halogens. If one or more carbons are linked to any of those halogens given above then those are called halocarbons.

For example, consider chloroethane ${\text{CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}\text{Cl}$ . In this example, one carbon is attached to one halogen which is chlorine. Therefore, it is considered Halocarbon.

Here, in this case, the ethyl group is considered as R in the formula R-X.

Consider another example which is dichloroethane ${\text{ClCH}}_2{\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}\text{Cl}$ . In this case, both the carbons are attached to the halogen which is chorine. Therefore, it is considered Halocarbon.

Conclusion

A covalent bond is formed between the carbon and the halogen. Generally, halogen is represented as X which is bonded to R which is an alkyl group. Alkyl groups will have one or more than one carbon so they can form covalent bonds with more than one halogen.