Haloalkanes

• General formula CnH2n+1X
• Ozone in the atmosphere absorbs UV radiation. CFCs also absorb UV radiation, breaking down the carbon-halogen bonds to form free radicals and that can catalyse ozone depletion.
• A nucleophile is a reactant that donates a pair of electrons to form a new covalent bond. Lone pair donor.
• Reaction with aqueous solution of NaOH or KOH: reactants are heated under reflux and the product is an alcohol.
• Reaction with a hot ethanolic solution of KCN or NaCN: reactants are heated under reflux and the product is a nitrile.
• Reaction with concentration NH3: the product is an amine. To prevent successive substitution, excess concentration ammonia is used and the reactants are heated in a sealed glass tube.
• Reaction using an ethanolic solution of NaOH or KOH: elimination occurs when haloalkanes are heated to high temperatures under alcoholic conditions. The OH- acts as a base instead of a nucleophile.