Question

How would you prepare ethane from methyl iodide?

Hint:

The Wurtz reaction is a common method for forming carbon-carbon bonds by using sodium metal to initiate the reaction.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understand the reaction.
To prepare ethane (C\(_2\)H\(_6\)) from methyl iodide (CH\(_3\)I), we need to use a nucleophilic substitution reaction. This can be done by using a strong nucleophile, such as a cyanide ion (CN\(^-\)) or an alkoxide ion (RO\(^-\)), in a reaction called the Wurtz reaction.
Step 2: Wurtz Reaction.
The Wurtz reaction involves two molecules of methyl iodide reacting in the presence of sodium metal (Na). Sodium provides electrons, which initiate the formation of a new carbon-carbon bond, resulting in the formation of ethane. The reaction proceeds as follows: \[ 2 CH_3I \xrightarrow{Na} C_2H_6 + 2 NaI \]
Step 3: Mechanism.
- Sodium (Na) donates electrons to methyl iodide (CH\(_3\)I), resulting in the formation of two methyl radicals (CH\(_3\)•). - These methyl radicals then combine to form ethane (C\(_2\)H\(_6\)), while iodine (I\(^-\)) is displaced.
Final Answer: Ethane can be prepared from methyl iodide through the Wurtz reaction by using sodium metal.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{Ethane can be prepared by the Wurtz reaction using sodium metal.}} \]