8. What are alkyl radicals (groups)? Illustrate your answer using an example.

Answer 1

Alkyl radicals, also known as alkyl groups, are groups of atoms derived from alkane molecules by removing one hydrogen atom. They are formed when an alkane molecule loses a hydrogen atom as a result of chemical reactions.

For example, let's consider methane (CH4) as an alkane molecule. When methane undergoes a chemical reaction and loses one hydrogen atom, it forms a methyl radical (•CH3). The methyl radical is referred to as an alkyl radical or alkyl group because it is derived from methane by removing one hydrogen atom.

The methyl radical (•CH3) can then combine with other atoms or functional groups to form various organic compounds. For instance, when the methyl radical combines with a chlorine atom (Cl), it forms methyl chloride (CH3Cl), which is a halogenated compound.