Wurtz Reaction
The Wurtz Reaction is an organic chemistry reaction that involves the coupling of two alkyl halides using sodium metal in dry ether. This reaction typically produces a higher alkane by forming a new carbon-carbon bond. It is particularly useful for synthesizing symmetrical alkanes from halogenated compounds.
In the Wurtz Reaction, the sodium metal reduces the alkyl halides, leading to the formation of free radicals. These radicals then couple to form the desired alkane. However, the reaction can lead to a mixture of products, including undesired byproducts, making it less selective compared to other coupling methods.