Reactive Intermediates - Carbocations, Carbanions, Free Radicals | CurlyArrows

Why this chapter?

A chemical reaction always begins with a reactant (starting material), which triggers a chemical response when a suitable reagent is added. 

Sometimes, these chemical reactions do not happen in a single step and require multiple steps that go through intermediates. These intermediates are called the ‘Reactive Intermediates’ and are essential for converting reactants into products. 

The chapter on ‘Reactive Intermediates’ discusses some of the most important types - Carbocation, Carbanion, and Free Radical (carbon-based).

The reactive intermediate controls reaction rates and even influences the product outcome. The polythene bag for groceries or the PVC pipe transporting water was made using a reactive intermediate called free radicals. Reactive intermediate like carbocation is involved when any foreign substance enters our body, and it is safely removed by the liver enzymes to avoid any harm. Metronidazole, a drug used to treat various infections, uses a carbanion intermediate for its synthesis. 

This chapter explores the most common types, their stability, and the types of reactions they undergo.

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