Propagation step

Definition

In the context of preparing alkenes through elimination reactions in organic chemistry, the propagation step is a phase within a chain reaction where intermediates react with stable molecules to produce new intermediates and propagate the reaction sequence. This step repeats itself, sustaining the chain reaction until terminated.

Related terms

Elimination reactions:

Reactions where molecules lose atoms or groups of atoms from adjacent carbon atoms to form a double bond.

Alkenes:

Unsaturated hydrocarbons containing at least one carbon-carbon double bond.

Chain reaction:

A series of reactions where a reactive product or by-product causes additional reactions to take place