(a) Conversion of Alcohol to Alkyl Chloride using Thionyl Chloride
In this reaction, a hydroxymethyl group (\(-{CH2OH}\)) reacts with thionyl chloride (\({SOCl2}\)) to form the corresponding chloro derivative.
The product is benzyl chloride, and the reaction proceeds via the conversion of the hydroxyl group into a good leaving group, followed by substitution with chlorine.
Product structure:
\[ {C6H5CH2Cl} \]
Quick Tip: Thionyl chloride (\({SOCl2}\)) is widely used to convert alcohols into alkyl chlorides with high efficiency.
(b) Anti-Markovnikov Addition of HBr to Styrene
In this reaction, styrene (\({C6H5CH=CH2}\)) reacts with \({HBr}\) in the presence of a peroxide.
Due to the peroxide effect (Kharasch effect), the reaction follows a free radical mechanism, giving the anti-Markovnikov product. This means that the bromine atom attaches to the less substituted carbon of the double bond.
Major Product: 1-bromo-2-phenylethane
\[ {C6H5CH2CH2Br} \]
This reaction is a classic example of free radical addition to alkenes influenced by the presence of peroxides.
