Chapter 7.SE, Problem 71AP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Benzene reacts with alkyl chlorides in the presence of AlCl₃ catalyst to yield alkyl benzenes through the formation of a carbocation intermediate. The observation that reaction of benzene with 1-chloropropane yields isopropylbenzene as the major product is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

In the first step a carbocation intermediate is formed. AlCl₃, being an electrophile, supports this reaction by removing the halide ion. The carbocation formed can rearrange to a more stable carbocation and then react with benzene ring.