Radical reactions

Definition

Radical reactions in organic chemistry involve the formation and reaction of radicals, which are highly reactive species with unpaired electrons. These reactions proceed via a mechanism that includes initiation, propagation, and termination steps.

Related terms

Radicals: Atoms or molecules that contain at least one unpaired electron, making them highly reactive.

Chain propagation: A step in radical reactions where radicals react with stable molecules to produce new radicals, continuing the reaction sequence.

Chain initiation: The initial step in radical reactions where free radicals are generated, often by homolytic cleavage of a bond under the influence of heat or light