Chapter 25, Problem 25.7P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The weakest C - C single bond in the given molecule is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Although free radicals tend to be very unstable, we can assign different relative stabilities to various radicals, based on the energy required to produce them via homolysis. Alkyl radical stability increases in the order: ${\text{methyl < 1° < 2 }}^{\text{ο}}{\text{< 3}}^{\text{ο}}$. Alkyl radical stability decreases as the effective electronegativity of the carbon atom that gains the unpaired electron increases. We can compare the strength of the C-C single bond on the basis of the stability of radicals formed by homolysis. More stable the radicals, weakest the bond.