The main difference between free radical substitution and free radical addition lies in the type of reaction that occurs. In free radical substitution, a free radical replaces a functional group or atom in a molecule, while in free radical addition, a new functional group is added to a molecule without the removal of any other group or atom.
- Free Radical Substitution: This type of reaction involves the replacement of a functional group or atom in a molecule with a free radical. For example, in the chlorination of methane, a chlorine atom is substituted for one of the hydrogen atoms in the methane molecule.
- Free Radical Addition: In this type of reaction, a new functional group is added to a molecule without the removal of any existing group or atom. For instance, in the addition of a hydrogen halide to an alkene, a hydrogen atom and a halogen atom are added to the double bond without removing any other atoms.
In summary, free radical substitution involves the replacement of a functional group or atom, while free radical addition involves the addition of a new functional group without removing any existing group or atom.
Comparative Table: Free Radical Substitution vs Free Radical Addition
Here is a table comparing free radical substitution and free radical addition:
| Feature | Free Radical Substitution | Free Radical Addition |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A type of radical reaction where a functional group is replaced by another functional group or atom. | A type of addition reaction where a functional group is added to a compound through a free radical reactive intermediate. |
| Involves | Replacement of a functional group or atom. | Addition of a new functional group to a molecule. |
| Reaction Type | Substitution reaction. | Addition reaction. |
| Mechanism | Proceeds through three distinct stages: initiation, propagation, and termination. | May involve different mechanisms depending on the specific reaction. |
| Examples | Halogenation of alkanes, where a hydrogen atom is replaced by a halogen atom. | Addition of H-Br to alkenes, leading to the formation of new hydrocarbons. |
In summary, free radical substitution involves the replacement of a functional group or atom, while free radical addition involves the addition of a new functional group to a molecule. Both reactions involve free radicals as reactive intermediates, but they differ in the type of reaction they belong to and the overall outcome of the reaction.
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